We want to take this moment to celebrate the life of Bud Napoleon. Bud was a gentle soul and an absolute inspiration, leading by example in better caring for the lands and waters and speaking out against injustice. He was always ready to support his community, both human and non-human. His kind spirit and generosity will be greatly missed.

Bud Napoleon was a Cree Elder, trapper, hunter, traditional food gatherer and served as the first chief of the Treaty 8 Tribal Association. He was in deep relationship with the lands and waters of his territory and worked hard to take care of them, from fighting against the Site C dam to speaking up for endangered caribou. He was a fluent speaker of Cree and Dunn-zah and was one of the founders of “Pemmican Days” for the Saulteau First Nation which continues to this day.

We at Sierra Club BC were extremely fortunate to collaborate with Bud for many years, including during his time as a SCBC board member. We are so grateful for the abundance of wisdom Bud shared with us and the lessons we will continue to carry forward with us.  

Bud certainly left the world a better place than when he found it. His legacy continues to live on in the many lives he touched.