Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly buys historic Merritt courthouse

MERRITT, B.C. — A local First Nations organization has purchased the City of Merritt’s historic courthouse building with the intention of turning it into a cultural centre.

In a news release, the Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly (CNA) says the sale of the century-old building at 1840 Nicola Avenue recently closed.

The organization says it plans to renovate the building and use it for cultural events, workshops and training, with a space set aside for local elders.

“CNA hopes this new space will bring people together and create a sense of community in the city,” said the news release.

“At Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly we are proud to own a space where we can let the roots of our organization and communities grow. Acquiring this building supports the continued growth and success of the [CNA]. Through programs and community engagement, the [CNA] continues to work with our members from our participating bands and the Nlaka’pamux Nation to reclaim our Nlaka’pamux language and culture,” said CNA Chair and Cook’s Ferry Indian Band Chief Christine Walkem.

“The building will quite literally become our Citxw – “house,” where we can gather, learn, teach, and inform,” she continued.