Skwah First Nation facts for kids
The Skwah First Nation or Skwah Band is a group of Sto:lo people who live near the city of Chilliwack, British Columbia, Canada. They are a self-governing community, which means they have their own leaders and make decisions for their people. Their name in the Halkomelem language (Halkomelem: Sqwehá or Sqwa) shows their deep connection to their history and culture.
It's important not to confuse the Skwah First Nation with the Skway First Nation, even though they are in the same area. They are separate communities, and the Skwah Nation is not part of the Sto:lo Nation Chiefs Council, while the Skway Nation is.
Skwah Lands and Reserves
First Nations in Canada often have special areas of land called Indian Reserves. These lands are set aside for the use and benefit of the First Nation people. The Skwah First Nation manages several of these reserves. These lands are important for their community life, culture, and history.
Here are some of the reserves under the care of the Skwah First Nation:
- Grass Indian Reserve No. 15: This reserve is about half a mile southeast of Chilliwack. It covers 64.80 hectares and is shared with eight other First Nations.
- Pekw'Xe:yles (Peckquaylis): This place is very important. It used to be the site of the St. Mary's Indian Residential School. Today, it has been transformed into a center for culture, government, and business for the community. It is 10.30 hectares in size.
- Schelowat Indian Reserve No. 1: Located on the right side of Hope Slough, about 5 miles east of Chilliwack. It covers 85.20 hectares.
- Skumalasph Indian Reserve No. 16: This large reserve is 6 miles northwest of Chilliwack, covering 468.40 hectares. It is shared with four other First Nations.
- Skwah Indian Reserve No. 4: This reserve is right next to downtown Chilliwack, on its west side. It is 126.30 hectares.
- Skwahla Indian Reserve No. 2: You can find this reserve on the left side of Hope Slough, about 1 mile northeast of Chilliwack. It is 11.70 hectares.
- Skwali Indian Reserve No. 3: This reserve is northwest of the City of Chilliwack and covers 118.50 hectares.
Community Members
The Skwah First Nation has a total registered population of 479 people. A "registered population" means the number of people officially recognized as members of the First Nation.
Here's a look at where the community members live:
- 232 people live on one of the Skwah Nation's own reserves. This includes 115 males and 117 females.
- 51 people live on reserves that are managed by other First Nations. This group includes 25 males and 26 females.
- 196 people live off-reserve, meaning they live in other towns or cities, not on a reserve. This includes 91 males and 105 females.
