Discover the Enduring Spirit and Modern Renaissance of Qayqayt First Nation. Explore Their Rich History, Cultural Revitalization, and Vision for the Future.

Introduction: The Story of Qayqayt First Nation
Historical Roots and Ancestral Lands
Colonial Impacts and Displacement
Cultural Revitalization and Language Preservation
Governance, Leadership, and Community Structure
Land Rights, Treaties, and Legal Challenges
Economic Development and Community Initiatives
Health, Education, and Social Programs
Qayqayt in the Urban Context: Relationships with New Westminster
Future Directions: Aspirations and Ongoing Projects
Sources & References

Introduction: The Story of Qayqayt First Nation

The Qayqayt First Nation, also known as the New Westminster Indian Band, is a unique and historically significant Indigenous community located in the Lower Mainland region of British Columbia, Canada. The Qayqayt people are part of the broader Coast Salish cultural and linguistic group, whose traditional territories span the coastal and riverine areas of southwestern British Columbia. The name “Qayqayt” itself refers to an ancient village site situated near the confluence of the Fraser River and the Brunette River, an area that has been a gathering place and home to Indigenous peoples for thousands of years.

The Qayqayt First Nation holds a distinctive place in Canadian history. It is recognized as the only First Nation whose reserve was located within the boundaries of a major urban center—New Westminster. The original Qayqayt village was a vibrant hub for trade, social gatherings, and cultural ceremonies long before European contact. However, the arrival of settlers and the subsequent development of New Westminster led to the displacement of the Qayqayt people, the loss of their traditional lands, and the eventual dissolution of their original reserve in the early 20th century.

Despite these challenges, the Qayqayt First Nation has demonstrated remarkable resilience. In 1994, the band was reconstituted under the leadership of Chief Rhonda Larrabee, who traced her ancestry to the Qayqayt people and worked tirelessly to revive the community’s identity and presence. Today, the Qayqayt First Nation is a registered band under the federal Indian Act, though it does not currently possess a land base or reserve. The Nation’s members are dedicated to preserving their heritage, advocating for recognition, and participating in regional and national Indigenous initiatives.

The Qayqayt First Nation is governed by an elected Chief and Council, and it actively engages with other First Nations, government agencies, and organizations to advance the interests of its members. The Nation is a member of the First Nations Summit, an organization representing the interests of First Nations in British Columbia in treaty negotiations and other matters of governance and rights (First Nations Summit). Through cultural revitalization, education, and advocacy, the Qayqayt First Nation continues to assert its place in the history and future of the region, striving to reclaim its rightful role as stewards of their ancestral lands and traditions.

Historical Roots and Ancestral Lands

The Qayqayt First Nation, also known as the New Westminster Indian Band, is a Coast Salish community with deep historical roots in what is now the Lower Mainland of British Columbia, Canada. The name “Qayqayt” refers to a traditional village site located near the confluence of the Fraser River and the Brunette River, an area that has been inhabited by Indigenous peoples for thousands of years. Archaeological evidence and oral histories indicate that the Qayqayt people were part of a complex network of Coast Salish communities who relied on the rich resources of the Fraser River for sustenance, trade, and cultural practices.

The ancestral lands of the Qayqayt First Nation encompassed significant portions of present-day New Westminster, Surrey, Burnaby, and other surrounding areas. These territories were not only home to permanent villages but also to seasonal camps and resource-gathering sites. The Fraser River, in particular, was central to the Qayqayt way of life, providing salmon, sturgeon, and other fish species that were vital for food and trade. The riverbanks and surrounding forests also offered abundant plant resources, game, and materials for shelter and tools.

Historically, the Qayqayt village was a prominent settlement and a gathering place for various Coast Salish groups. The site was known for its large longhouses and its role as a hub for social, economic, and ceremonial activities. The arrival of European settlers in the 19th century, however, brought significant disruption. Colonial policies, land dispossession, and the establishment of the city of New Westminster led to the displacement of the Qayqayt people from their traditional lands. Despite these challenges, the Qayqayt First Nation has maintained its cultural identity and continues to assert its rights and connection to its ancestral territory.

Today, the Qayqayt First Nation is recognized as the only First Nation whose administrative office is located in the city of New Westminster. The Nation is actively involved in cultural revitalization, land stewardship, and advocacy for Indigenous rights. It is a member of the broader Coast Salish cultural and linguistic family, which includes numerous other First Nations in the region. The Qayqayt First Nation works to preserve its heritage and to educate the public about its enduring presence and contributions to the history and development of the Lower Mainland (Qayqayt First Nation).

Colonial Impacts and Displacement

The Qayqayt First Nation, also known as the New Westminster Indian Band, is a Coast Salish community whose traditional territory encompasses the area now known as New Westminster, British Columbia, and surrounding regions. The impacts of colonialism on the Qayqayt people have been profound, resulting in significant displacement, loss of land, and disruption of traditional ways of life. Prior to European contact, the Qayqayt were part of a vibrant network of Coast Salish communities, with established villages, resource sites, and cultural practices deeply connected to the Fraser River and its tributaries.

Colonial expansion in the 19th century brought rapid and often violent changes to the Qayqayt. The establishment of the city of New Westminster in 1859, designated as the first capital of the Colony of British Columbia, led to the appropriation of Qayqayt lands for settler use. The colonial government, under the direction of figures such as Governor James Douglas, implemented policies that disregarded Indigenous land rights and sovereignty. Reserve lands were often arbitrarily assigned, reduced, or relocated without meaningful consultation or consent from the Qayqayt people. The original Qayqayt village site, located near the confluence of the Fraser River and Brunette River, was eventually destroyed and its inhabitants forcibly removed.

The imposition of the Indian Act in 1876 further entrenched colonial control, regulating nearly every aspect of Indigenous life and governance. The Qayqayt, like many other First Nations, faced restrictions on cultural practices, movement, and economic activities. The residential school system, which operated across Canada, also affected Qayqayt families, contributing to intergenerational trauma and the erosion of language and traditions. The cumulative effect of these policies was the fragmentation of the Qayqayt community and the near-erasure of their presence from their ancestral lands.

Despite these challenges, the Qayqayt First Nation has persisted. Today, the Nation is recognized as a distinct band under the federal government, though it is unique in that it does not currently possess a land base or reserve. The Qayqayt First Nation continues to assert its rights and revitalize its culture, working to reclaim its history and strengthen its community. The legacy of colonial impacts and displacement remains a central issue for the Nation, informing its ongoing efforts toward recognition, reconciliation, and the restoration of its traditional territories. For more information on the Qayqayt First Nation and its current initiatives, refer to the official website of the Qayqayt First Nation and the Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada.

Cultural Revitalization and Language Preservation

The Qayqayt First Nation, also known as the New Westminster Indian Band, is a Coast Salish community with deep historical roots in the region now known as Metro Vancouver, British Columbia. Like many Indigenous nations in Canada, the Qayqayt have faced significant challenges to the preservation of their culture and language due to colonization, displacement, and assimilation policies. In recent years, however, the Qayqayt First Nation has undertaken important initiatives aimed at cultural revitalization and language preservation, recognizing these as essential to community identity and resilience.

Central to the Qayqayt’s cultural revitalization efforts is the reclamation and celebration of their traditional practices, stories, and ceremonies. The Nation actively participates in regional gatherings and cultural events, fostering intergenerational knowledge transfer and strengthening community bonds. These activities often include traditional drumming, singing, and the sharing of oral histories, which are vital for maintaining a living connection to ancestral heritage. The Qayqayt also collaborate with neighboring Coast Salish nations to support broader cultural resurgence across the region.

Language preservation is a particularly urgent priority for the Qayqayt First Nation. The traditional language of the Qayqayt people is hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓, a dialect of the Halkomelem language, which is part of the Coast Salish language family. Like many Indigenous languages, hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ is critically endangered, with few fluent speakers remaining. In response, the Qayqayt First Nation has engaged in partnerships with educational institutions and language experts to develop language learning resources, offer classes, and create opportunities for community members to learn and use their ancestral language in daily life. These efforts are often supported by organizations such as the First Peoples’ Cultural Council, which provides funding, training, and digital tools for language documentation and revitalization (First Peoples' Cultural Council).

The Qayqayt First Nation also leverages digital technology to support cultural and language revitalization. This includes the creation of online archives, multimedia resources, and social media outreach to engage younger generations and the broader public. By integrating traditional knowledge with modern platforms, the Nation ensures that cultural teachings remain accessible and relevant in contemporary contexts.

Through these multifaceted initiatives, the Qayqayt First Nation demonstrates a strong commitment to cultural continuity and linguistic resilience. Their work not only strengthens their own community but also contributes to the broader movement of Indigenous cultural resurgence across Canada.

Governance, Leadership, and Community Structure

The Qayqayt First Nation, also known as the New Westminster Indian Band, is a distinct Indigenous community located in the Lower Mainland region of British Columbia, Canada. It is recognized as the only First Nation whose administrative office is situated within the urban core of Metro Vancouver. The governance of the Qayqayt First Nation is structured around a Chief and Council system, which is a common model among First Nations in Canada. This system is responsible for making decisions on behalf of the community, managing resources, and representing the Nation in dealings with other governments and organizations.

The leadership of the Qayqayt First Nation is headed by an elected Chief, supported by a council of elected members. The Chief and Council are tasked with upholding the interests of the Nation, overseeing community programs, and ensuring the well-being of its members. The Nation’s governance is guided by traditional values, as well as contemporary administrative practices, to address the needs of its people in a modern urban context. The Qayqayt First Nation is unique in that it does not currently have a land base or reserve, which influences its governance priorities and community development strategies.

Community structure within the Qayqayt First Nation is shaped by its small population and urban setting. The Nation’s membership is composed of individuals who trace their ancestry to the original Qayqayt people, as well as those who have joined through family connections and community ties. The Nation places a strong emphasis on cultural revitalization, language preservation, and the restoration of traditional practices. Community events, educational initiatives, and partnerships with local organizations are central to fostering a sense of identity and belonging among members.

The Qayqayt First Nation is a member of the First Nations Summit, an organization that represents the interests of First Nations in British Columbia in treaty negotiations and other government relations. The Nation also engages with federal and provincial governments through the frameworks established by Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, now known as Indigenous Services Canada and Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada. These relationships are vital for accessing funding, advocating for rights, and participating in policy development that affects Indigenous peoples in the region.

Overall, the governance, leadership, and community structure of the Qayqayt First Nation reflect a blend of traditional Indigenous values and adaptive strategies suited to an urban environment, with a focus on cultural renewal, advocacy, and community cohesion.

Land Rights, Treaties, and Legal Challenges

The Qayqayt First Nation, also known as the New Westminster Indian Band, is a distinct Indigenous community located in the Lower Mainland region of British Columbia, Canada. Unlike many other First Nations in the province, the Qayqayt First Nation is unique in that it does not currently possess a land base or reserve, a situation that has significantly shaped its approach to land rights, treaties, and legal challenges. The band is recognized by the federal government and is a member of the First Nations Summit, which represents the interests of First Nations involved in treaty negotiations in British Columbia.

Historically, the Qayqayt people were part of the broader Coast Salish cultural and linguistic group, with traditional territories encompassing areas along the Fraser River, including what is now New Westminster. The process of colonization, urban development, and the imposition of the Indian Act led to the displacement of the Qayqayt people and the loss of their traditional lands. The original Qayqayt reserve, established in the 19th century, was eventually dissolved, and its lands were absorbed into the expanding city of New Westminster. This loss of land has been a central issue for the Nation, influencing its legal and political strategies in the modern era.

In terms of treaties, the Qayqayt First Nation is not a signatory to any of the historical treaties in British Columbia, such as the Douglas Treaties or Treaty 8. The majority of the province, including the Qayqayt’s traditional territory, remains unceded, meaning that no formal agreements were made to surrender Indigenous title to the Crown. This legal context has provided a foundation for ongoing assertions of land rights and title by the Qayqayt and other First Nations in the region. The British Columbia Treaty Process, established in the 1990s to address outstanding land claims, has seen participation from many First Nations, but the Qayqayt First Nation has not been a major participant, focusing instead on other avenues for recognition and redress.

Legal challenges related to land rights have been a persistent theme for the Qayqayt First Nation. The Nation has advocated for the recognition of its historical presence and rights within its traditional territory, often engaging with municipal, provincial, and federal governments to assert its interests. The lack of a land base complicates these efforts, as it limits the Nation’s ability to exercise jurisdiction and benefit from economic development opportunities typically associated with reserve lands. Despite these challenges, the Qayqayt First Nation continues to seek justice and recognition, drawing on legal precedents established by Supreme Court of Canada decisions affirming Indigenous rights and title, such as the landmark Tsilhqot’in Nation v. British Columbia case.

The Qayqayt First Nation’s ongoing struggle for land rights and recognition highlights broader issues of Indigenous justice and reconciliation in Canada. Their experience underscores the importance of addressing historical dispossession and ensuring that all First Nations have a meaningful role in decisions affecting their traditional territories. Organizations such as Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada and the BC Treaty Commission play key roles in facilitating dialogue and negotiation, though the path to resolution remains complex and ongoing.

Economic Development and Community Initiatives

The Qayqayt First Nation, also known as the New Westminster Indian Band, is a Coast Salish community located in the Lower Mainland region of British Columbia. As one of the smallest First Nations in Canada, the Qayqayt First Nation has a unique position in the economic landscape of the region. Despite its small land base and population, the Nation has demonstrated a commitment to economic development and community initiatives that support both self-sufficiency and cultural revitalization.

Economic development for the Qayqayt First Nation is shaped by its urban context and limited reserve lands. The Nation does not currently have a traditional land base, which presents challenges for resource-based economic activities common among other First Nations. Instead, the Qayqayt First Nation has focused on building partnerships and exploring opportunities in urban economic sectors. The Nation has engaged in collaborative projects with local governments and organizations to advocate for the interests of its members and to participate in regional planning and development processes.

One of the key community initiatives undertaken by the Qayqayt First Nation is the promotion of cultural awareness and education. The Nation works to preserve and share its history, language, and traditions through public events, educational programs, and partnerships with local schools and cultural institutions. These initiatives not only strengthen community identity but also foster relationships with neighboring communities and raise awareness of Indigenous history in the region.

The Qayqayt First Nation is also involved in advocacy for the recognition of its rights and interests in urban development projects. The Nation participates in consultations related to land use, heritage preservation, and environmental stewardship, ensuring that its voice is included in decisions that affect its traditional territories. This advocacy is supported by engagement with municipal and provincial governments, as well as participation in regional Indigenous organizations.

Looking forward, the Qayqayt First Nation continues to explore new avenues for economic development, including potential business ventures, service delivery, and partnerships with private and public sector entities. The Nation’s leadership emphasizes the importance of sustainable development that aligns with community values and long-term well-being. Through these efforts, the Qayqayt First Nation aims to create opportunities for its members while contributing to the broader economic and social fabric of the region.

For more information about the Qayqayt First Nation and its initiatives, visit the Qayqayt First Nation official website.

The Qayqayt First Nation, also known as the New Westminster Indian Band, is a small but resilient Indigenous community located in the Lower Mainland region of British Columbia. As a First Nation with a unique urban context and no reserve lands, Qayqayt faces distinct challenges and opportunities in the delivery of health, education, and social programs to its members.

In the realm of health, Qayqayt First Nation members are eligible for services provided through the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA), which is the first province-wide health authority of its kind in Canada. The First Nations Health Authority is responsible for planning, management, and delivery of health programs and services for First Nations in British Columbia, including primary care, mental health, and wellness initiatives. Qayqayt members can access a range of health benefits, such as medical transportation, dental care, vision care, and prescription medications, through the FNHA’s Health Benefits program. The FNHA also supports culturally safe care and community wellness initiatives, which are particularly important for urban Indigenous populations who may experience barriers to accessing mainstream health services.

Education is another key area of focus for the Qayqayt First Nation. Members are eligible for post-secondary education funding and support through the Indigenous Services Canada Post-Secondary Student Support Program, which assists with tuition, books, and living expenses. The Qayqayt First Nation also works to foster educational success for its youth by collaborating with local school districts and advocating for culturally relevant curriculum and support services. In British Columbia, the Government of British Columbia has established policies to support Indigenous learners, including targeted funding, Indigenous education coordinators, and the integration of Indigenous perspectives into the K-12 curriculum. These efforts aim to address historical educational disparities and promote positive outcomes for Qayqayt students.

Social programs for Qayqayt First Nation members are shaped by both federal and provincial initiatives, as well as community-driven efforts. The band provides support for housing, employment, and family wellness, often in partnership with organizations such as BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres, which offer culturally appropriate services in urban settings. The Qayqayt First Nation also participates in regional and national forums to advocate for improved access to social services and to address issues such as poverty, homelessness, and systemic discrimination affecting Indigenous peoples.

Overall, while the Qayqayt First Nation faces unique challenges due to its urban location and lack of reserve land, it continues to leverage partnerships and available programs to support the health, education, and social well-being of its members.

Qayqayt in the Urban Context: Relationships with New Westminster

The Qayqayt First Nation, also known as the New Westminster Indian Band, holds a unique position within the urban landscape of New Westminster, British Columbia. As the only First Nation whose traditional territory is located entirely within the boundaries of a major Canadian city, Qayqayt’s relationship with New Westminster is both historically significant and contemporary in its challenges and opportunities. The Qayqayt people are descendants of the original inhabitants of the area, with deep-rooted connections to the land along the Fraser River, which has long served as a vital resource and transportation corridor.

Historically, the Qayqayt village was a central hub for trade and cultural exchange among Coast Salish peoples. However, colonial expansion and the establishment of New Westminster in the mid-19th century led to the displacement of the Qayqayt community and the loss of their traditional village site. Despite these disruptions, the Qayqayt First Nation has maintained its identity and continues to assert its rights and presence within the city. The band was reconstituted in 1994 and is recognized as a distinct First Nation under Canadian law, though it is notable for being one of the few bands in Canada without a land base or reserve.

In the urban context, the Qayqayt First Nation engages with the City of New Westminster on a range of issues, including cultural recognition, land use, and reconciliation initiatives. The city has acknowledged the Qayqayt as the original stewards of the land and has taken steps to incorporate Indigenous perspectives into municipal planning and public events. For example, New Westminster’s official land acknowledgments and public art installations often reference the Qayqayt people and their enduring connection to the area. These efforts are part of a broader movement towards reconciliation and the recognition of Indigenous rights in urban settings.

The Qayqayt First Nation also participates in regional and intergovernmental forums, advocating for the interests of its members and collaborating with other Indigenous and non-Indigenous organizations. The band’s leadership, including its Chief and Council, work to ensure that Qayqayt voices are heard in discussions about urban development, heritage preservation, and social services. While the absence of a land base presents unique challenges, it also positions the Qayqayt First Nation as a key stakeholder in shaping the future of New Westminster as a diverse and inclusive city.

The ongoing relationship between the Qayqayt First Nation and New Westminster exemplifies the complexities and possibilities of Indigenous presence in urban Canada. Through dialogue, partnership, and advocacy, both entities continue to navigate the legacy of colonialism while working towards a more equitable and respectful coexistence.

Qayqayt First Nation
City of New Westminster
BC Assembly of First Nations

Future Directions: Aspirations and Ongoing Projects

The Qayqayt First Nation, also known as the New Westminster Indian Band, is actively shaping its future through a combination of cultural revitalization, economic development, and community engagement. As the only First Nation whose reserve is located within the urban core of Metro Vancouver, the Qayqayt First Nation faces unique opportunities and challenges in asserting its rights, preserving its heritage, and fostering prosperity for its members.

A central aspiration for the Qayqayt First Nation is the reclamation and revitalization of its traditional lands and culture. The Nation is working to strengthen its cultural identity by promoting the use of traditional languages, supporting intergenerational knowledge transfer, and participating in regional cultural events. These efforts are seen as vital for healing from the impacts of colonization and for building a resilient community for future generations.

Economic development is another key focus. The Qayqayt First Nation is exploring partnerships and business ventures that align with its values and long-term vision. Given its strategic location in the Lower Mainland, the Nation is positioned to engage in urban development projects, land management initiatives, and service agreements with local governments. These projects aim to generate sustainable revenue streams, create employment opportunities for members, and enhance the Nation’s self-sufficiency.

Land rights and reconciliation remain at the forefront of ongoing projects. The Qayqayt First Nation continues to advocate for the recognition of its historical and legal rights to land and resources. This includes participating in government-to-government negotiations, engaging with municipal and provincial authorities, and seeking redress for past injustices. The Nation’s leadership is committed to ensuring that future development respects Qayqayt’s heritage and supports the well-being of its people.

Community wellness and capacity building are also integral to the Nation’s future directions. Initiatives in health, education, and housing are being developed to address the needs of Qayqayt members, both on and off reserve. The Nation collaborates with regional Indigenous organizations and service providers to improve access to culturally appropriate programs and services.

Looking ahead, the Qayqayt First Nation envisions a future where its sovereignty is respected, its culture is thriving, and its members enjoy social and economic prosperity. Through strategic planning, advocacy, and collaboration, the Nation is laying the groundwork for a vibrant and self-determined future.

For more information about the Qayqayt First Nation and its ongoing projects, visit the Qayqayt First Nation official website.