Squamish First Nation
MODERN PROFILE
The Squamish Nation is comprised of descendants of the Coast Salish Aboriginal peoples who lived in the present day Greater Vancouver area; Gibson’s landing and Squamish River watershed. The Squamish Nation have occupied and governed their territory since beyond recorded history. Total area of Squamish Nation Traditional Territory is 6,732 sq. km. (673,540 hectares).
The Nation consists of 23 villages encompassing 28.28 sq. Km. (S, 849 hectares).The percentage of Squamish Nation Traditional Territory allotted to the people is 0.4230%. These parcels of land are scattered from North Vancouver, Gibson’s Landing to the area north of Howe Sound.
The Nation’s population is scattered among nine communities stretching from North Vancouver to the northern area of Howe Sound. 2,239 of the 3,324 Squamish Nation members live on-reserve and membership is determined by marriage and birth right.
HISTORY
After contact with European settlers, 16 Squamish speaking tribes amalgamated to form one unit called the Squamish Indian Band. The amalgamation was signed on July 23, 1923 and it was established to guarantee equality to all Squamish people and to ensure good government.
THE LANGUAGE
The Squamish people are the Native Indians who speak the Skwxwú7mesh Snichim, Squamish language. Today the term Squamish Nation is often used to describe this group of Coast Salish people, however in the long ago there was no word for “nation” and the Squamish simply called themselves Squ-HO-o-meesh, “the Squamish People”. The Skwxwú7mesh Snichim although critically endangered is still a vital part of the Squamish peoples culture.
THE LONGHOUSE
Ceremonial events of the Squamish people are customarily conducted in the Longhouse. During pre-contact certain Longhouses were utilized as community dwellings. Others were set aside for the exclusive use of the winter spiritual dances. The Longhouse is a sacred place that plays a significant role in the culture of the Coast Salish people.
Information courtesy of the Squamish Nation Network website - for more visit www.squamish.net