Kwiakah First Nation facts for kids
The Kwiakah First Nation, also known as the Kwiakah Band or Kwiakah Nation, is a self-governing group of the Kwiakah people. They are part of the larger Laich-kwil-tach (also called Euclataws or Southern Kwakiutl) group, who are a branch of the Kwakwaka'wakw peoples.
Most of the Kwiakah Nation's 19 members live in Campbell River, British Columbia, Canada. However, their traditional lands are located in the Discovery Islands, which are just north of Campbell River. They also have two special areas called Indian Reserves on the mainland coast, right next to these islands. The Kwiakah Nation is actively working to reconnect with their heritage by returning to and living on their traditional sites.
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Language of the Kwiakah People
The Kwiakah people have their own traditional language called Lekwala. This language is a southern dialect of Kwak'wala. Kwak'wala belongs to a group of languages known as Northern Wakashan languages. Learning and speaking Lekwala helps the Kwiakah Nation keep their unique culture and history alive for future generations.
Kwiakah Indian Reserves
The Kwiakah Nation manages two Indian Reserves. These are special areas of land set aside for the use and benefit of the Kwiakah people. They help preserve the Kwiakah's connection to their ancestral lands.
- Matsayno Indian Reserve No. 5 is a large area of 48 hectares (about 118 acres). It is located on the eastern shore of Phillips Arm, which is a body of water north of East Thurlow Island.
- Saaiyouck Indian Reserve No. 6 is 20.8 hectares (about 51 acres) in size. This reserve is on the mainland coast, northwest of Stuart Island, and about two miles west of the Arran Rapids.
Working Together: Tribal Councils
The Kwiakah First Nation is a member of the Kwakiutl District Council. This council is a group of different First Nations governments who work together on common goals and interests. Being part of this council helps the Kwiakah Nation have a stronger voice and share resources with other communities.
The BC Treaty Process
The Kwiakah First Nation is involved in the British Columbia Treaty Process. This is a way for First Nations and the governments of British Columbia and Canada to negotiate and sign treaties. These treaties aim to define the rights and land ownership of First Nations in British Columbia.
The Kwiakah Nation is currently in Stage 4 of the BC Treaty Process. This stage means they are actively negotiating the details of a treaty. They are part of the Hamatla Treaty Society, which is a group working together on these negotiations.
The Kwiakah Nation also works closely with the Cape Mudge First Nation and the Campbell River First Nation. Together, they form the Laich-kwil-tach Council of Chiefs, also known as the Laich-kwil-tach Treaty Society. This partnership helps them address shared concerns and work towards a better future for their communities.
