First Nations in British Columbia facts for kids

The First Nations in British Columbia are many different groups of Indigenous peoples living in the province of British Columbia. These groups are part of the larger Indigenous Canadian population. Many of them work together in groups called tribal councils.

British Columbia is home to a wide variety of First Nations. Some well-known groups include the Haida, Coast Salish, Kwakwaka'wakw, Gitxsan, Tsimshian, and Nisga'a. These groups are known for their rich Pacific Northwest Coast cultures. There are also many Interior Salish and Athapaskan peoples, as well as the Ktunaxa people, living in the interior parts of the province.

Understanding First Nations in British Columbia

First Nations are the original inhabitants of the land that is now called British Columbia. They have lived here for thousands of years, long before European settlers arrived. Each First Nation has its own unique history, language, culture, and traditions. There are over 200 distinct First Nations in British Columbia, making it a very diverse province.

What is a Tribal Council?

A tribal council is a group of several First Nations that have chosen to work together. They often share common interests, cultures, or geographic areas. These councils help their member First Nations with things like land claims, resource management, education, and health services. They act as a way for different First Nations to have a stronger voice when dealing with governments and other organizations.

Diverse Cultures and Languages

The First Nations of British Columbia are incredibly diverse. They speak many different languages, some of which are unique to this region. Their cultures are also very different, depending on where they live. For example, coastal First Nations often have strong ties to the ocean, with traditions of fishing and carving totem poles. Interior First Nations might have traditions related to hunting, trapping, and living in forests or mountains.

Coastal First Nations

The coastal First Nations, like the Haida, Kwakwaka'wakw, and Coast Salish, are known for their strong connection to the Pacific Ocean. Their cultures often feature impressive artwork, such as totem poles, longhouses, and canoes. They have rich traditions of storytelling, ceremonies, and potlatches, which are special gatherings for sharing and celebrating.

Interior First Nations

Inland, groups like the Ktunaxa, Interior Salish, and Athapaskan peoples have adapted to the diverse landscapes of British Columbia's interior. Their traditions often involve hunting, gathering plants, and managing forest resources. They have unique languages and cultural practices that reflect their deep connection to the land and its seasons.

First Nations Groups by Region

British Columbia is a large province, and its First Nations are often grouped by the regions where they live. This helps to understand the different communities and their shared histories.

First Nations of the Interior

The interior of British Columbia is home to many distinct First Nations. These groups have adapted to the diverse landscapes of mountains, forests, and rivers.

Chilcotin First Nations

The Chilcotin people are an Athapaskan-speaking group living in the Chilcotin Plateau region.

Carrier First Nations

The Carrier people, also known as Dakelh, live in the central interior of British Columbia.

Ktunaxa First Nations

The Ktunaxa people live in the southeastern part of British Columbia, near the Rocky Mountains.

St'at'imc First Nations

The St'at'imc people live in the Fraser Canyon and Lillooet River areas.

Nlaka'pamux First Nations

The Nlaka'pamux people are located in the Fraser Canyon and Thompson River regions.

Okanagan Nation Alliance

The Okanagan Nation Alliance represents several First Nations in the Okanagan Valley.

Secwepemc First Nations

The Secwepemc (Shuswap) people live in the central and southern interior of British Columbia.

First Nations of the Lower Mainland

The Lower Mainland region, including the area around Vancouver, is home to several important First Nations.

• Sts'Ailes (Chehalis)/ Chehalis Indian Band
• Musqueam First Nation
• Katzie/Katzie First Nation
• Tsawwassen First Nation
• SemiahmooSemiahmoo First Nation
• Tsleil-Waututh First Nation (Burrard Band)
• Kwikwetlem First Nation (Coquitlam Indian Band)

First Nations of the North Coast

The northern coast of British Columbia is home to powerful First Nations with rich maritime cultures.

Tsimshian First Nations

The Tsimshian people live along the Skeena River and the coast of northern British Columbia.

First Nations on Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island is home to many First Nations, each with unique histories and cultures tied to the island's environment.