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"Our lands and waters continue to support cultural and economic practices while serving as a vital source of knowledge and memory"

“xʷməθkʷəy̓əm are traditional hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ speaking people living in the Fraser River estuary for thousands of years. Today, many members live on Musqueam’s reserve located in south Vancouver within a small portion of our traditional territory.

Musqueam have moved throughout this territory using the natural resources for fishing, hunting, trapping and gathering. Our lands and waters continue to support cultural and economic practices while serving as a vital source of knowledge and memory. Our sniw̓ (teachings) are part of who we are, and they have persevered because of the wisdom and resilience of our ancestors. 

Musqueam Aboriginal Fisheries Guardian Photo Musqueam First Nation

Our rights are inherently tied to stewardship of our territory. xʷməθkʷəy̓əm upholds this responsibility by continually setting legal precedents in the protection of our unceded lands, resources, rights and title. In R v. Sparrow, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled that Musqueam has an Aboriginal right to fish for food, societal and ceremonial purposes, which is protected through Section 35 of the Canadian Constitution. This case fundamentally altered the relationship between all Indigenous Peoples in Canada and the Crown.

Today, Musqueam’s Fisheries and Environmental Stewardship departments work closely to preserve, enhance and restore the lands, waters and environment of our traditional territory, ensuring protection for current and future generations.”

Musqueam website

Musqueam natural resource officers
Musqueam Natural Resource Officers Photo Musqueam First Nation

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