Stz'uminus First Nation facts for kids
The Stz'uminus First Nation is a group of Indigenous people living on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. They are located near the town of Ladysmith, British Columbia. The Stz'uminus First Nation is part of the Naut'sa mawt Tribal Council, which helps different First Nations work together.
In 2009, the leaders of the Stz'uminus First Nation decided to officially change their name from Chemainus to Stz'uminus. This change was important because Stz'uminus is their original name in the Hul'qumi'num language. It helps to honor their history and culture.
What is the Salish Sea?
In March 2008, a representative from the Stz'uminus First Nation, George Harris, suggested a new name for the nearby Strait of Georgia. He proposed calling it the Salish Sea. This idea was well-received by the government of British Columbia.
The name "Salish Sea" was officially adopted in British Columbia in February 2010. This name is used by the Coast Salish Gathering, a group of Coast Salish leaders from both Canada and the United States. They have been using this name since 2007.
Where is the Salish Sea?
The Salish Sea is a large network of waterways that includes the Strait of Georgia, Puget Sound in the United States, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. It also includes many smaller channels and bays. The Stz'uminus First Nation's largest reserve, Chemainus Indian Reserve No. 13, is located on Stuart Channel, which is one of these smaller waterways within the Salish Sea.
The idea for the "Salish Sea" name was first suggested by Bert Webber in 1989. He was a professor from Bellingham, Washington. He wanted to give a common name to these connected waters.
See also
- Hulq'umi'num (language)
- Naut'sa mawt Tribal Council
