The Institute preserves and promotes the languages of the Yinka Déné First Nations of northern BC. The activities of the Institute include publishing material in these languages, training researchers and teachers, and archiving documents on Yinka Déné languages, culture, and history.
Culture
Like all cultures, indigenous cultures are expressed in day-to-day life. ANPs in every sector play their part by including traditional elements (knowledge, language, games, songs, stories, etc.) in the services they offer. But unlike all cultures, ours are recovering from trauma and need special care. ANPs in the Culture sector, like The First Peoples’ Cultural Foundation, provide that special care by supporting immersion programs, internships and language archiving.
U’Mista Cultural Society
The mandate of the Society is to preserve the cultural heritage of the Kwakwa̱ka̱ʼwakw people who inhabit the north end of Vancouver Island and nearby islands. The Society’s most notable achievement has been the repatriation of potlatch artifacts seized by government. These artifacts, known as the “Potlatch Collection”, are on display at the U’mista Cultural Centre in Alert Bay.
Secwepemc Cultural Education Society (SCES)
SCES is governed by a board of directors representing the Secwepemc communities. The Society’s mandate is to establish a centre that will collect and preserve Secwepemc historical, cultural, educational, and legal materials. Several departments have been created to fulfill this mandate, including Education, Language, and Communications.
Que’utsun Syuw’entst Lelum’ Culture and Education Centre
Quw’utsun Syuw’entst Lelum’ means “Cowichan teachings house”. The Centre promotes Cowichan culture and language to both First Nation and non-First Nation people, and provides educational support to Cowichan Tribes members. The success of the Centre’s programs is due to its holistic approach to improving the quality of life for all members and integrating its services with other Band and community services.
Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council
The Nuu-chah-nulth are Indigenous people whose homelands are on the west coast of Vancouver Island. NTC provides health and social services to approximately 9,500 registered members of Nuu-chah-nulth Nations. It also represents the Nations in fostering treaty negotiations with Canada and British Columbia.
Ktunaxa Nation
The Council represents the Ktunaxa people, who have occupied their homelands in the Kootenay region for more than 10,000 years. The Council’s vision is of healthy citizens, speaking their languages, managing their lands and resources, within a self-governing Nation. To achieve this vision, the Council is active in treaty negotiation, language renewal, economic development, and the delivery of social programs.
‘Ksan Historical Village and Museum
‘Ksan Historical Village and Museum is located in Hazelton, BC. It showcases the culture and heritage of the Gitxsan First Nation. Gitxsan people have lived in this area for centuries. The Historical Village is a replica of a typical Gitxsan village from the distant past.
Heiltsuk Cultural Education Centre
The Centre’s mandate is to create a permanent record of the history, language, and culture of the Heiltsuk Band, which can be passed on to successive generations. Heiltsuk Band members are the descendants of Heiltsuk-speaking people who began inhabiting BC’s Central Coast at least 9000 years ago.
First Peoples’ Cultural Foundation
The mission of the First Peoples’ Cultural Foundation is to inspire and empower BC First Nations to revitalize their languages, arts and cultures. Human and financial resources are urgently needed as we race against time to avoid the extinction of precious Indigenous heritage.
Coqualeetza Cultural Education Centre
The Coqualeetza Cultural Education Centre is located in Chilliwack. Its operating philosophy is that it belongs to the Sto:lo people but that it is open to all Aboriginal peoples, students and educators. The Centre offers cultural programs and services that enhance Aboriginal pride while fostering social adjustment.
