Scia'new First Nation facts for kids
The Sc'ianew First Nation, also known as the Beecher Bay First Nation, is a group of First Nations people. They are led by their own government body. This community is located on the southern part of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada.
As of March 2020, there were 261 members of the Sc'ianew First Nation. Their traditional lands include Beecher Bay and several islands like Fraser Island, Lamb Island, Long-neck Island, Twin Island, Village Island, and Whale Island.
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Understanding the Sc'ianew First Nation
The Sc'ianew First Nation is an important part of Canada's history and present. They are one of many Indigenous groups who have lived on these lands for thousands of years. Their government works to protect their rights, culture, and lands for future generations.
The Meaning of Sc'ianew
The name "Sc'ianew" is pronounced CHEA-nuh. It comes from the Klallam language and means "the place of the big fish." This name shows how important fishing and the ocean were, and still are, to their way of life.
Languages of the Sc'ianew People
The Sc'ianew First Nation recognizes four languages that their ancestors spoke. While not all of these languages are spoken every day now, they are a vital part of their heritage. Historically, the main language spoken by the Sc'ianew people was Hul’q’umi’num’. This language is a special dialect, or version, of the larger Halkomelem Language spoken by many Coast Salish peoples.
Treaties and Agreements
The Sc'ianew First Nation was involved in the Douglas Treaties. These were agreements made a long time ago between Indigenous peoples and the colonial government. Today, the Sc'ianew First Nation is working on a new, modern treaty. They are doing this as part of the Te'mexw Treaty Association. Other First Nations involved in these negotiations include the Malahat, Nanoose, Songhees, and T'Souke Nations. These modern treaties aim to create fair agreements for land, resources, and self-governance.
