Xeni Gwet'in councillor Marilyn Baptiste has won the 2015 Goldman Environmental Prize

Xeni Gwet'in councillor Marilyn Baptiste has won
the 2015 Goldman Environmental Prize for her leadership in defeating a proposed gold and copper mine that would have destroyed Teztan Biny (Fish Lake), a source of spiritual rejuvenation, identity and livelihood for the Xeni Gwet’in, reads a statement. The Prize is the world’s largest award recognizing grassroots environmental activists and is awarded to six people from around the world.  It is valued at $175,000 and recognizes individuals for sustained and significant efforts to protect and enhance the natural environment, often at great personal risk. . “We couldn’t be more proud of Marilyn Baptiste, whose incredible devotion to the Tsilhqot’in people and territory is demonstrated in every action she takes, wrote Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, president of the Union of BC Indian Chiefs.