After 26 long years of debate, the Supreme Court of Canada has given developers the green light to build a ski resort on sacred First Nation land in the British Columbia Kootenays.
The Ktunaxa Nation have been fighting to prevent the construction of the resort. They believe that the sacred grizzly bear spirit lives in the region. Moreover, they state that this construction would drive out the sacred spirit, which is central to their rituals and beliefs.
In spite of this, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled on Thursday, November 2nd, that the construction in BC’s Jumbo Valley doesn’t breach religious rights. The resort will be called the Jumbo Glacier Resort.
“In short, the Charter protects the freedom to worship, but does not protect the spiritual focal point of worship,” reads the final landmark decision.
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Massive Ski Resort in the BC Jumbo Valley
“The three-phase project would include 5,500 bed-units plus 750 beds for staff accommodations, and is expected to draw 2,000 to 3,000 visitors a day in high season,” reports CBC.
The resort was for its optimal snow conditions and accessibility. As a result, it has been a key point of public interest for quite some time. With large glaciers at high elevations, the resort promises to provide visitors with fantastic riding.
Another ski resort was recently proposed for Hope, BC that will cost $400 million dollars and provide year-round activities.