First Nations

The Burrard Inlet, the surrounding waterways, and the land have been tremendously important to the aboriginal people of the region for thousands of years. The Burrard Inlet is the traditional territory to the Coast Salish people. Upon the arrival of Europeans in the late 18th century, many of the local people were decimated through disease. Additionally, they then had to cope with colonialism, reserves, and residential schools.  Despite all these challenges, the three nations of the Burrard Inlet (Squamish, Tsleil-Waututh, and Musqueam) are strong, vibrant, and thriving. In fact, according tolocal artist Michael Nicoll Yahgulanaas, the common narrative that Indigenous culture is under threat is a gross misrepresentation - rather, that fact that, after all the years of attempted systemic cultural and ethnic genocide, they are still here speaks to the inherent strength and resilience of the culture.  

The 3 bands that call the Burrard Inlet home have shared traditional territory and resources for thousands of years. They are:

​ Squamish Nation
​http://www.squamish.net/
​
​Tsleil-Wauthuth Nation http://www.twnation.ca/
 
Sacred Trust Initiative http://twnsacredtrust.ca/

Musqueam
​http://www.musqueam.bc.ca/




​Tsleil-Wautuch Past link here