LET’S TALK COMMUNITY SAFETY
‘Uy’ skweyul Quw’utsun Mustimuhw,
As we move fully into fall and the days get shorter and darker, I want to remind our citizens of the importance of community safety and looking out for one another. I encourage drivers to slow down and watch out for pedestrians and for pedestrians to take precautions to increase their visibility. I also encourage our citizens to come speak with our partners at the North Cowichan Duncan RCMP and Indigenous Policing Services at our upcoming Let’s Talk Community Safety drop-in session on November 12th at 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm at the Si’em Lelum Gym. We will be discussing all areas of community safety, including the importance of reporting suspicious activities. We want to hear from you and exchange ideas about steps we can all take to enhance safety for our people.
Huy tseep q’u to our Elders, families, and young people for attending two community meetings we hosted in October. The first was an update on our efforts to recover our lands at Tl’uqtinus on October 10th. The trial started more than five years ago and final oral arguments were heard in Victoria and Duncan Courthouses last summer. We also extended the invitation to Quw’utsun Mustimuhw from Halalt, Stz’uminus, Penelakut, and Lyackson to join us via Zoom. I want to recognize our lawyer, David Robbins from Woodward and Co for his thorough presentation and for answering our questions. Thank you as well to our speaker, Ernie Elliott.
Cowichan Tribes Council, CAO, Organizational Leadership Team, and staff are all committed to transparency and accountability. Each year, we hold the annual audit meeting to provide an in-person and online space for respectful information sharing with our citizens. Copies of our annual report, the financial audit, and the schedule of remuneration for elected officials are provided to attendees and are also available on our website.
This year’s event took place on October 16th. Our auditor from MNP provided an overview of our finances for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024 and attendees had the opportunity to ask questions, with the priority placed on financial matters. It was good to hear from our citizens regarding the procurement and contract processes, our Custom Election Law, economic development, and the performance of our nation-owned businesses.
I raise my hands to our councillors, our Chief Financial Officer, our Acting CAO, our department directors, and our leadership at Khowutzun Development Corporation for responding to these questions.
Here are some additional activities from October:
•October 1: I attended an event regarding the impacts of the toxic drug crisis hosted by Better Together Cowichan at the Cowichan Community Centre along with Councillors Amanda Sylvester and Debra Toporowski.
•October 2: I met with Indigenous Services Canada staff regarding addition to reserve. We are very close to finalizing the Koksilah Nursery and Our Director of Governance is completing the final steps.
•October 3: It was a pleasure to attend the Shq’apthut tu’ni’u Quwutsun Kw’at’kwa Youth Led Marine Forum Feast at the Quw’utsun Cultural and Conference Centre along with Councillors Francine Alphonse, Tasha Brooks, Troy Elliott, and Chris Alphonse.
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•October 15: I participated in farewell luncheon for Cst. Michael Buchanan who’s leaving our Indigenous RCMP unit to relocate to another detachment. We will be interviewing soon for a replacement and I will be involved in that process.
•October 22-23: I traveled to Halifax for the National First Nations Indigenous Skills Employment Training Strategy to represent Coast Salish Employment & Training Society as I sit on their Board as the Cowichan Tribes representative.
November Council meetings will take place on November 12th and 26th.
Huy tseep q’u, Chief Cindy Daniels (Sulsulxumaat)
Chief and Council Meeting - Report to the Community
DATE OF MEETING: SEPTEMBER 10, 2024
1.Agenda Item: Lulumexun recommended Allotments
Department: Land and Natural Resources
Decision Made: Chief and Council approved the 3 allotment recommendations from the Land Investigation Committee. To protect our citizens’ right to confidentiality, the names and locations of the allotments will not be listed here; however, if anyone has questions about the allotment process, please visit our Cowichan Tribes website or call the Lulumexun department.
2.Agenda Item: Salish Sea Initiative Arms-Length Fund (ALF)
Department: Lands and Natural Resources
Decision made: Chief and Council approved accepting funds to continue participation in projects and marine work on the Salish Sea.
3.Agenda Item: Citizenship Applications
Department: Citizenship
Decision made: Chief and Council approved the following recommendations made by the Citizenship Committee:
•Accept 1 new citizenship application
•Reject 1 citizenship application
•Accept 1 transfer to Cowichan Tribes application
•Approved appointment of Stuart Pagaduan as a community rep and Angelina Rice-Louis as an alternate committee rep.
All names and details about any of the above listed applications will not be shared; however, if there are questions about the Citizenship Code or the application process, please visit the Cowichan Tribes website or call the Citizenship department.
DATE OF MEETING: SEPTEMBER 24, 2024
1.Agenda Item: Cowichan Tribes Pet Policy Department: Administration
Decision Made: Chief and Council previously passed a pet policy to keep pets out of the workplace to ensure health and safety of all community and staff. After some review and to align with community and employee human rights, Council has amended the policy to include approval for service animals in office, as well as pets on site during Cowichan Tribes programs, such as the community pet clinic in October.
2.Agenda Item: Lulumexun recommended Allotments
Department: Land and Natural Resources
Decision Made: Chief and Council approved the 5 allotment recommendations from the Land Investigation Committee. To protect our citizens’ right to confidentiality, the names and locations of the allotments will not be listed here. However, if anyone has questions about the allotment process, please visit our Cowichan Tribes website or call the Lulumexun department.
3.Agenda Item: Appointment of I.R.A Department: Citizenship
Decision Made: Chief and Council approved the appointment of Tylia James as the backup Indian Registration Administrator (I.R.A). Tylia has successfully completed the training and can now support our I.R.A. Pauline Thorne.
4.Agenda Item: Sustainable Housing Committee’s Terms of Reference and Housing Policy
Department: Sustainable Housing Department
Decision Made: Chief and Council approved the Committee’s Terms of Reference and the Housing Policy as presented.
5.Agenda Item: Delegated and Assigned Responsibilities Policy Department: Finance
Decision Made: Chief and Council approved the Chief Financial Officer’s requested to amend the policy to streamline administrative processes and provide approval for the CAO to approve the Authorization and Delegation Table which outlines who has authority and the levels of authority.
6.Agenda Item: Cowichan Mini-Mall LTD Department: Finance
Decision Made: Cowichan Mini-Mall Ltd is managed through a property management service agreement with Gulf Pacific. Finance received a request from Gulf Pacific for Chief and Council to forgive a loan balance owed to Cowichan. Chief and Council declined this request and have directed Administration to analyze the current management service agreement.
7.Agenda Item: On-Reserve Housing Loan Program Department: Finance
Decision Made: Chief and Council received two requests to guarantee two separate citizens’ loan applications to build their own home, on their own land. Both motions were approved. To assist citizens who are looking to borrow and build their own home, the On-Reserve Housing Loan Program was created to provide the guarantee the bank needs to lend a citizen funds to build on reserve. To protect the member’s rights to confidentiality, the members’ names and other information will not be shared. However, if anyone has questions about this program, please visit our Cowichan Tribes website or call the Sustainable Housing Department.
KWA’MUTSUN
Update for Quw’utsun citizens
The Claims Period is closed for regular submissions.
However, in some cases the Administrator may ask claimants to submit a new claim form.
This only applies to you if:
You receive a letter from the Administrator informing you that information was missing on your original claim form. You have 90 days to complete, and send in missing information and/or the Attestation Forms for Minors. Claimants can contact the Administrator with questions about a claim or the claims process Monday – Friday, 10am – 8pm EST at: Email: firstnationswater@deloitte.ca or call the Toll Free number at 1-833252-4220.
Claims for Minor Children
You may be required to complete an Attestation Form and Schedule A Form. If you have any questions, or need assistance in submitting missing information, the Attestation Form, or Schedule A Form, come see Josephine Charlie at the Administration Office Monday - Friday 8:30-4:30. Or call the office at (250) 748-3196.
What happens if I don’t provide the missing information?
If you don’t respond to the first missing information letter within 90 days, a second, final letter is sent, providing you with an additional 90 days to respond. If the Administrator doesn’t receive a response within the 90-day period, your claim will be refused, and you will not be eligible for compensation.
Quw’utsun citizens who would like to check the status of their claim can contact the Administrator at no charge by calling: 1-833-252-4220 (Monday – Friday, 10:00am – 8:00pm EST) or by email at: firstnationswater@deloitte.ca.
LET’S TALK COMMUNITY SAFETY
Date: Tuesday, November 12,
Time: drop-in between 5:00pm-8:00pm
‘Uy’skweyul,
This fall kicked off with the first atmospheric river event of the season on the weekend of October 18-20. Fortunately, the Quw’utsun and Koksilah River levels remained at low and we did not experience flooding like other regions of Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland. Huy tseep q’u to our staff from several departments who joined me in monitoring the situation over the weekend, including Emergency Services, Public Works, and Communications.
Now is the time to prepare for the flood season. Our Emergency Services and Sustainable Housing departments have provided information in the pages that follow for preparing our families and homes. I encourage our citizens to attend the Emergency Services events on November 5 and 27 for assistance with getting set up for the Evacuee Registration and Assistance tool (ERA), which makes it much easier for those affected by flooding to receive financial supports.
L UTS ’
I raise my hands to everyone who made the Pet Clinic a success on October 19th and 20th. Approximately 70 cats and dogs received care ranging from spay and neuter to vaccines and health checks. Please join me in thanking: the BC SPCA for providing the funding; the veterinarians from across Vancouver Island for providing their services; and RainCoast Dog Rescue for working with staff from Lulumexun, Sustainable Housing, Communications, and the Si’em Lelum Gym to coordinate this important event for our community members. Please stay tuned for the date of the next Pet Clinic, expected in December. Quw’utsun citizens can sign up for the waitlist online here.
QR code for Spay/Neuter
QR code for 2023-2024
Lastly, I’d like to draw our readers’ attention to our 2023-2024 Annual Report. The report highlights the important work and achievements of our Nation during the fiscal year in a beautiful, easy to read format that reflects the pride we take in the work we do on behalf of our citizens. This year’s themes include: Governance, Community Engagement, Infrastructure and Housing, Community Safety, and Partnerships.
These partnerships across our departments and with external agencies are especially important to addressing complex health, housing, social, environmental, and financial needs. I would like to recognize our staff and the organizations they collaborate with each day, particularly those working in housing, health services, harm reduction, mental health, youth supports, and environmental stewardship. I also want to thank our citizens for their partnership and engagement with us this year through attending events, participating in programs, providing input and feedback, and casting your votes. Your participation, ideas, and perspectives matter. The Annual Report is available on our website and printed copies are available at the Administration Building.
Huy
KWA’MUTSUN
ch q’u, Dana (Sunaxwumaat) Thorne
INDIAN BOARDING HOMES
What is the Indian Boarding Homes Class Action?
The Indian Boarding Homes Program was an educational program created by the Government of Canada, which placed children from First Nations communities and Inuit villages in other communities (usually non-Indigenous) to stay in private family homes for the purpose of attending school.
This settlement is in response to two legal actions (Superior Court of Quebec and Federal Court cases) filed on behalf of children who suffered harassment, abuse, loss of language and culture, and other harms as a result of their participation in the Indian Boarding Homes Program. Through the litigation, plaintiffs sought compensation, recognition, and justice for their experiences and harms suffered.
The Indian Boarding Homes Class Action provides compensation to people placed in these homes. Primary Class Members of the Indian Boarding Homes Class Action are eligible claimants.
Primary Class Members are individuals who were placed in private homes, during the period of September 1, 1951 and June 30, 1992, for the purpose of attending school, not including placements for post-secondary education. Individuals placed after June 30, 1992, are also included if Canada was responsible for their placement.
THE CLAIM PROCESS IS NOW OPEN
The process is now open for Claimants to submit their claim for compensation. Claim forms can be located on boardinghomesclassaction.com, or you can contact the Claims Administrator at 1-888- 4991144 to have the forms sent to you.
Claims must be submitted prior to the deadline of Monday February 22, 2027.
Reminder
The claims process is complex. It may take several months to process your claim after you submit your form(s). If you move, change your email address or phone number, please make sure to provide your new contact information.
If you need to change any information, (for example, your mailing address, email, or phone number) please contact the Claims Administrator at:
Email: claims@boardinghomesclassaction.com Phone Number: 1-888-499-1144
Mail: Attn: Indian Boarding Homes Class Action, 18 York Street, Suite 2500, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5J 082.
SUL-HWEEN SCHEDULE
Remembrance Day
Hul'q'umi'num' Class 10:00-11:30am
Bingo with Donna 1:00pm
Hul'q'umi'num' Class 10:00-11:30am
Receive GFB
Bingo with Donna 1:00pm
Hul'q'umi'num' Class 10:00-11:30am
Bingo with Donna 1:00pm
Hul'q'umi'num'
10:00-11:30am
GOOD FOOD BAG PROGRAM
Bingo with Donna 1:00pm
Hul'q'umi'num'
Class 10:00-11:30am
KWA’MUTSUN
Hul'q'umi'num' Class 10:00-11:30am
Hul'q'umi'num' Class 10:00-11:30am
Hul'q'umi'num' Class 10:00-11:30am
Our Good Food Bag (GFB) Program provides a variety of fruits and vegetables to Elders for the cost of $15.00 per bag, cash payments can be at the Elders Building. Below is the Good Food Bag program 2024 dates indicating when money is due, and the date you will receive your Good Food Bag.
*Please note we do not deliver Good Food Bags. Pick up can be made at the Elders Building * GFB Money Due:Receive GFB: November 12, 2024 November 8, 2024 December 10, 2024 December 6, 2024
We Are Back!!
New location: 470 Trans Canada Hwy
We had a great turn out for our Youth Centre’s Grand Opening on October 10, 2024. We shared a delicious meal with over 30 youth and community members
The Youth Centre is open Tuesday - Saturday from 3:00pm - 9:00pm
Rides are available upon request. Call us at: (250) 746-0607
YOUTH CENTRE
STARTING NOVEMBER 2, 2024 FROM 4:00PM - 9:00PM
COME HANG OUT & TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF WITH COOL ACTIVITIES, ARTS, CRAFTS & TASTY SNACKS
SELF-CARE SATURDAYS!! COUNSELLOR AVAILABLE 3:00PM - 4:30PM RELAX | HAVE FUN | FEEL AWESOME
Youth Services Rules and Guidelines
Failure to follow these rules may result in being removed from the property. Youth Services Staff have the right to refuse entrance to anyone at any time for any reason.
LHUMLHUMU L UTS ’
• All youth must check in immediately upon arrival.
• Once youth are signed, in please remain inside the building; leaving and reentering are not allowed. There is absolutely no hanging around outside of the building.
• No alcohol, drugs, or cigarettes (this includes vaping products).
• No weapons (of any kind).
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• Inappropriate language, fighting, bullying, intimidation, or threats to other youth or staff will not be tolerated.
• Skating, biking, or wrestling is not allowed inside the facility.
• Participants are expected to respect the staff, property, equipment, and other youth
• Each youth is responsible for their own property (including bikes, skates, and other personal items).
• Youth must clean up after themselves after preparing snacks
If rules are broken, these are the consequences for participants:
1. First incident - verbal warning
2. Second incident - suspension for 1 day
3. Third incident - suspension for 1 week
4. Discussion between staff, parents, and youth will take place on the return date. Suspensions can vary in length based on the severity of the behavior that led to suspension.
Please note, if weapons, drugs, or other illegal items are found, staff will confiscate items and notify parents/RCMP.
Drop in: 3:00-9:00pmDrop in: 3:00-9:00pm
Drop in: 3:00-9:00pmDrop in: 3:00-9:00pm
Bead Circle 1:30-3:00pm Youth Center Bead Circle 1:30-3:00pm Youth Center
Drop in: 3:00-9:00pmDrop in: 3:00-9:00pmDrop in: 3:00-9:00pmDrop in: 3:00-9:00pmDrop in: 3:00-9:00pm Drop in: 3:00-9:00pmDrop in: 3:00-9:00pmDrop in: 3:00-9:00pm
Drop in: 3:00-9:00pmDrop in: 3:00-9:00pmDrop in: 3:00-9:00pm
Drop in: 3:00-9:00pmDrop in: 3:00-9:00pmDrop in: 3:00-9:00pmDrop in: 3:00-9:00pmDrop in: 3:00-9:00pm Drop in: 3:00-9:00pmDrop in: 3:00-9:00pm
Embracing Life invites you to: Beading Circle
Join us in November for a drop-in beading circle. Feel free to bring your own projects to work on or use our supplies.
Come ready to share your knowledge, learn and laugh!
When: November: 7 and 21 Time: 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Where: Youth Centre - 470 Trans Canada Highway. Open to all Quw'utsun Mustimuhw.
To RSVP, email: Natasha.toth@cowichantribes.com Phone: (250) 732-3712
SATURDAY YOUTH COUNSELLINGService
Cowichan Tribes Kwun'atsustul Counselling will be working out of Cowichan Tribes Youth Services Building on Saturdays from 3:00 pm -4:30 pm. This service is free to any Cowichan youth.
When: Saturdays
Where: Unit 4 - 470 Trans Canada HWY
Contact: Kwun’atsustul Counselling
Mathew Davydiuk (250) 732-2191 mathew.davydiuk@cowichantribes.com
Kwun’atsustul Reception (250) 422-3122
Kwn.reception@cowichantribes.com
MONDAYS
WHERE TO GET SUPPORT
TS’EWULHTUN HEALTH CENTRE - (250) 746-6184
KWUN’ATSUSTUL COUNSELLING
Counselling support available for children, youth, adults, couples, and families - both in-person or over the phone. Daily on-call counsellors mean you can call whenever you need to talk. Call 778-422-3122 - Monday - Friday 8:30-4:30
SA’QW’THUT DAY TREATMENT
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Cowichan Tribes’ culturally-grounded treatment program based on the Quw’utsun Snuw’uy’ulh (teachings). Open to Cowichan members and their families. Program runs Tuesday-Friday, 11am-3pm. Call or Text Deanna at 250-732-3487 to register.
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TREATMENT & DETOX
Kwun’atsustul Treatment Coordinators Alexis Cage and Isabelle Williams help members with support, detox, and treatment for substance misuse and addictions.
Call or text 250-732-6055 - Monday - Friday 8:30-4:30
ADDICTIONS MEDICINE
Dr. Elizabeth Plant can help if you have trouble with drugs or drinking. She can also assist you if you want to stop using. The clinic has nurses, social workers, and people who can help you stay safer. Call 250-715-3322 to book - Mondays and Thursdays from 1-4pm
The Ts’ets’uwut Tth’ele’ Mustimuhw team supports our unhoused & substance misuse population. They are available for Naloxone training, harm reduction, supplies, peer support, and connection to other services.
Call or text 250-732-4326 Monday - Friday 8:30-4:30
The YSTAR outreach team helps youth who are on the street, have problems with drugs, or just need support. They check in with how you're doing, prevent overdoses, connect you to help, provide family support, and offer ways to be safer.
7 days a week - 9am - 11pm - 250-739-5790
Ts’ewulhtun HEALTH CENTER
Pertussis cases are rising in our community
Vaccination is the Best defense
Vaccination is recommended to be given to infants 2, 4, 6, 18 months, children 4-6 years, youth in grade 9, and pregnant women. Pregnant women in their third trimester can receive the vaccine from
Pertussis, or whooping cough, is a serious infection of the airways caused by pertussis bacteria
People of any age can get pertussis. Infants & young children who have not been immunized get
If you think you or your child have pertussis, call your doctor for an appointment, go to a walk-in clinic, or go to the hospital.
Questions? Call (250) 715-1024
Pertussis spreads easily when an infected person coughs, sneezes, has close contact with others, sharing food, drinks, cigarettes, or kissing. Pertussis starts like a common cold but breathing and cough gets worse, leading to severe, repeated, and forceful coughing spells that often end with a Hwialusmutul’ Community Health
Tuesdays, November 5,12 19, and 26
For Childhood Immunizations 9:00AMTO6:30PM 9:00 AM TO 6:30 PM
Project Update
Allenby Road Slide Remediation Project
The Allenby Road Slide Remediation project, managed by the Public Works (PW) Department, is addressing the slope conditions that closed Allenby Road a er the 2021 atmospheric river event. The project involves collaboration with Lulumexun, the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MOTI), and Khowutzun Development Corporation (KDC).
Phase 1 works, which involved installing a a temporary single-lane alternating traffic arrangement, are now complete, and Allenby Road is open to the public. BC Hydro and traffic controller initialization work has also been finalized.
Please remember that the speed limit through the construction area is 30 km/hour for the safety of the public.
Phase 2 detailed design is well underway, with the initial design drawing review scheduled for this month. Final construction for the permanent remediation is anticipated to begin in the summer of 2025.
Please contact Chris Desautels, Director of Public Works, at (250) 715-3302 should you have any questions about this project.
CURBSIDE SCHEDULE
Recycling day
KWA’MUTSUN
Ethan Wilson Ethlam
For the Wilson family, life revolves around soccer. Dad, Philip, and mom, Loretta, both enjoyed playing and have shared their passion with their children. Ethan started soccer with the Cowichan Valley Soccer Association at the age of 5. Since 2021, he has been playing in Vancouver. The move has been generated positive opportunities for Ethan. Loretta describes him as shy; but she explained “sports have helped with making friends,” and some of Ethan’s teammates attend the same high school. Their home field is at UBC so the players get to enjoy the training facilities there. They also have access to some coaches from UBC for special training clinics.
When Ethan is not practicing with his team or on his own, he is also a canoe puller. Last summer, he competed at the Queen Lili'uokalani Canoe Race on Kona, Hawaii. There, he participated in a grueling 18-mile race with the Celtic Sunset canoe club. He also competed for the first time as a skipper in the U16 5-mile race with the Rainbow Canoe Club.
Quw’utsun Corner
We are excited to launch the second article in a new series featuring Quw’utsun Mustimuhw who are out in the community doing positive things. Do you have a good news story about a Cowichan citizen you want to share? Let us know by emailing: Communications@cowichantribes.com.
Quw'utsun Soccer Players Earn Professional League Try-Out
Michael Daniels and Ethan Wilson are going to Spain for soccer tryouts
Ethan has had the opportunity to compete internationally in soccer tournaments in Las Vegas, Colorado, and Washington State with the Nanaimo Rush Academy. In 2023, he played on the U16 Team BC at the 2023 North American Indigenous Games in Halifax, where the team won gold. Ethan’s sister, Lucetta, also came in brought home a gold medal as a member of the girls U16 BC team.
Three years ago, Ethan and his family experienced an unthinkable tragedy. On Halloween, their home in Duncan was destroyed by a fire, and tragically took the life of five year old Enzo.
Enzo was Ethan’s biggest soccer fan and Ethan continues to feel Enzo’s support when he is playing. Honouring his brother through soccer both motivates Ethan to continue to do his best and provides a source of healing.
Outside of school and sports, Ethan is involved in many cultural activities with the support of his grandma Lucetta and auntie Laura. He enjoys beading and weaving cedar hats. He says that it helps with stress. He also attends longhouse, community cultural jam sessions, and enjoys hunting and fishing.
Ethan has the following advice to share with other Quw’tsun youth:
“Hard work shows. People notice and it can take you places. It is worth it.”
A er high school, Ethan’s dream is to pursue soccer professionally. If he is not playing soccer in Europe, Ethan’s goal is to earn a soccer scholarship to attend college or University. His first choice would be to attend and play for UBC.
Ethan has participated in Native Ball Tournaments each year since he was 5. He and Michael Daniels play together on one of the Quw’utsun men’s’ teams. In August, Ethan and Michael attended a Droom Soccer tryout in Vancouver. They both made the cut to attend tryouts in Spain where there will be scouts for professional teams across Europe. Ethan is travelling with his mom and his baby brother, Arliss (3 months) for two weeks starting November 24th.
Ethan’s favourite Premier League team is Barcelona because many big shot soccer stars started out there, including Messi, who played for Barcelona until 2021 and is the Club’s all-time high scorer.
All of Quw’utsun will be cheering for Ethan and Michael as they pursue their dreams. Hopefully, Spain will also be the start of their professional soccer careers!
Age: 17
Family: Phillip Wilson (Father): grandparents are Frank Wilson and Molly Paige – From Quamichan
Loretta Wilson (Mom): grandparents are Rick Peter and Lucetta George – From Somena
Hul’q’umi’num’ names:
•Ethlam (from Lummi, shared with uncle and grandpa)
•Yuwule’tintsun (shared with/from great grandpa Ray)
•Shnen’ku (from great grandma Philomena)
School: Grade 12 at Point Grey Secondary School
Position: Centre back
Team: Vancouver United Metro U18
Jersey Number
To register, scan the QR Code or click here
DRUMMING FOR MEDICINE PROGRAM
(TUESDAYS)
Facilitators: Jacob Clark & Ernest Rice
When: Nov 5 - Nov 26, 2024
Location: Si’em Lelum Dining Hall
Time: 5:00pm - 7:00pm
• Join us for an evening of sharing, drumming, singing, and dancing.
• Light meal & transportation can be arranged.
• Bring your drums, rattles, songs and dances for a night full of good feelings and good medicine.
To register, scan the QR Code or click here
SWIM PASSES
Swim passes for Cowichan citizens are available for pick up at the Prevention Office.
YOUTH MENTORSHIP PROGRAM (HUNTING)
Facilitators: Sinahtun (Wayne Paige SR)
When: Mondays & Wednesday
Nov 4, 2024 - Dec 11, 2024
Location: 3615 Gibbins Rd
Time: 5:00pm - 7:00pm
For youth ages 13 to 18 years.
•A light meal will be provided
• Transportation available for youth that need pick up and drop off.
Program Details:
• Cultural teachings of harvesting, skinning, butchering, processing hide for wild game. Participants will learn safety in the form of Possession and Acquisition License (PAL ). Both written and practical tests will be done.
PAINT NIGHT (FRIDAYS)
Facilitators: Bill Mawson & Cultural Support
When: Nov 1 - Nov 29, 2024
Location: Prevention Office
Time: 4:30pm - 7:30pm
•Light meal.
•No transportation. To register, scan the QR Code or click here
CULTURAL PROGRAM (WEDNESDAYS)
Facilitators: Angela Underwood & Karla Joe
When: Nov 6 - 27, 2024
Location: Prevention Office Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm
•Light meal.
•Learn to prepate cedar for weaving and new tecniques. To register, scan the QR Code or click here
Pre-Employment Support Program (PES): Please check in with Sebastian Cassorla to ensure your PES file is up-to-date. Please check in with PES for November 2024 programming if they haven’t connected with you.
REMINDERS
•Monthly renewal declarations will be accepted from November 1 - 8, 2024 for December 2024 cheque issue; if you miss the deadline, you are required to attend the office on November 19, 2024 to complete a monthly renewal declaration for December 2024.
•Please ensure your contact information is up-to-date with your Band Social Development Worker and the Pre-Employment Support Program team.
•Current BC Hydro & Fortis BC bills are required for each client file.
•For your annual renewal package, please submit all required documents at the same time.
•Change reports are required when someone moves in or out of your home.
•Newborn parents, please connect with Citizenship to add baby prior to coming to Social Development.
•PLEASE NOTE: if you are the private home owner and a Social Development client, please meet with your worker to discuss home owner’s insurance.
Dora Swustus (250)732-0052
Dora.DBR@cowichantribes.com
Lori Guerin (250) 732-4583
Lori.Guerin.DBR@cowichantribes.com
Courtney Manhas (250) 732-0350
Courtney.Manhas@cowichantribes.com
COWICHAN TRIBES
Tth’al’xwumutsun (November) 2024
Citizenship Committee
Elder Representatives
Diane Modeste Philomena Williams
Youth Representatives
Louie Johnnie
Thomas Charlie
Community Representatives
Diana Elliott
Lisa Daniels
Johnny Crocker
Stuart Pagaduan (Alternative) Angelina
Rice-Louis
Chief and Council representatives
Cindy Daniels
Amanda Sylvester
Jen Charlie
Troy Elliott
Technicians
Pauline Thorne
Alice Modeste
Citizenship Department & Tobacco Tax
Tobacco Tax 2024
The Tobacco Tax Office is located at 8-180 Central Rd at the Village Green Mall.
•Tobacco tax distribution date: December 11, 2024
•November 15, 2024 is the application deadline to receive the December distribution for the 2024 December Distribution. The mail out and direct deposit will remain the same process.
• New banking info? Submit direct deposit pre-authorized debit forms in PDF and email to directdeposit@cowichantribes.com or in person to our tobacco tax team.
• Custody Documents: Parents and legal guardians following policy, please submit your most up-to-date custody court documents with your applications. The same applies for Power of Attorney.
If you miss the November 15, 2024 deadline for the December 11, 2024 distribution, you can still submit your 2024 Tobacco Tax forms ON OR BEFORE the following dates:
APPLICATION DEADLINE DISTRIBUTION DATES
January 10, 2025
April 4, 2025
July 11, 2025
September 5, 2025
Citizenship Department
Citizenship committee meets Jan 16, 2025
Applicants please submit by Jan 9, 2025
5760 Allenby Rd, Duncan, BC V9L 5J1 (250) 748-3196
membership@cowichantribes.com
Acting Citizenship Manager: Pauline Thorne
Citizenship Intake workers: Tylia James & Lacey Jones
Family Historian: Alice Modeste
January 17, 2025
April 11, 2025
July 18, 2025
September 12, 2025
HAPPY to our 430 Cowichan citizens born in November!
The Collaborative Process on the Second-Generation Cut-off
How does entitlement to Indian registration work with the Second Generation Cut-Off?
The ability to pass Indian Status differs depending on whether a parent is registered 6(1) or 6(2).
What is section 6?
Section 6 of the Indian Act defines how a person is entitled to be registered under the Indian Act.
What is the difference between 6(1) and 6(2) status?
A person may be registered under section 6(1) if both of their parents are or were registered or entitled to be registered.
For children who have one parent entitled to registration under 6(1), and the other parent is not entitled to registration, the child will be registered 6(2).
Potential Solutions to the Second Generation Cut-Off
During consultation in 2018 and 2019, there was no agreement or consensus on how best to address the Second Generation Cut-off, but the following solutions were presented by First Nations:
A.Shifting to a one-parent rule (requiring one parent to be registered)
B.Use of blood quantum
C.Use of DNA (establishing parameters of thresholds of genetic indigeneity)
D.Removing the categories completely so people are either registered or not
E.Transfer control to First Nations to decide who their people are (common set of minimum requirements established and applied).
We want to hear from you!
Please email Citizenship at membership@cowichantribes.com and let us know which option (from above) you think would be the best solution to the Second Generation Cut-Off. Citizenship will take this community feedback to Chief and Council and they will make a final recommendation on the best potential solutions to register our children.
Cowichan Tribes Sea Gardens Restoration Community Beach Camp Out
November 29 - December 2, 2024
Cowichan Tribes members are invited to participate in sea garden restoration work at the Gulf Islands Community Beach Camp Out.
We will work alongside Parks Canada and the Hul’q’umi’num’ Land & Resources Society on a beach in Fulford Harbour on Saltspring Island.
This is an opportunity for community members to care for and restore our beaches to support future harvesting.
Food will be provided to all attendees. There is a travel reimbursement for those driving vehicles over. If you do not have transportation, we will find a way for you to get there.
To SIGN UP for this event, please contact: Jacob Cook, Sea Garden Restoration Coordinator Jacob.Cook@cowichantribes.com
This 3-night event includes:
•a night of learning about sea gardens and connecting with the beach
•a night of working to restore the beach
•a night of harvesting at one of the beaches with an opportunity to bring the harvest home
Kw’atl’kwa (Ocean) Updates
Quw'utsun Mustimuhw Unite to Honour our Culture and Tumuhw at Youth-Led Marine Forum
’Y I Q Y N ’
Earlier this month, Cowichan Tribes' Marine Team, S-hwuhwa'us Thi'lut Kw'atl'kwa, held the Quw'utsun Youth-Led Marine Forum: Shq'apthut tu'ni 'u tu Quw'utsun Kw'atl'kwa (Gathering at the Cowichan Ocean). The event, driven by the creativity of Quw’utsun youth became a vivid expression of culture, connection, and stewardship.
Throughout the summer and early fall, our Quw'utsun Youth Marine Forum Designers, Clarissa Peter, Dorian Seward, and Amara Thorne, worked diligently to design an engaging four-day event that successfully brought together Quw'utsun Mustimuhw of all ages in celebration of our traditional marine territory.
L UTS ’
From the onset of the project, the Youth Design Team was passionate about incorporating Quw’utsun culture and snuw’uy’ulh into this marine-based event. Guided by Elders and the Marine Team, attendees enjoyed watershed and estuary tours, a family movie night, an Indigenous market, an Indigenous jam session, a canoe pull, and a traditional Pi’quan feast served by Quw’utsun chefs Jared Qwustenuxun Williams and Andrew Sampson.
Thanks to the efforts of Lulumexun Sea Garden Restoration Coordinator, Jacob Cook, we were able to harvest shellfish from our marine territory, ensuring this feast honoured both our waters and traditions. This offering, proudly served to Chief Sulsulxumaat Cindy Daniels, Cowichan Tribes Councillors, and Quw'utsun Mustimuhw, was a reminder of our ongoing responsibility to steward our lands and waters, and the work ahead to restore safe shellfish harvesting for our community.
These moments of intergenerational knowledge sharing and cultural celebration are pivotal in reclaiming the inherent responsibilities and authorities of our lands and waters.
If you attended any of the Shq'apthut tu'ni 'u tu Quw'utsun Kw'atl'kwa events, we invite you to share your feedback:
If you missed the Shq'apthut tu'ni 'u tu Quw'utsun Kw'atl'kwa feast, you can watch the highlights here:
Our hands are raised to our project partners at Georgia Strait Alliance and all those who helped out and attended. Huy tseep q'u siiem!
Don’t Miss Your Chance to be Part of the Quw’utsun Food System Revitalization Project!
Tum’ten: Friday and Saturday, November 8/9, 15/16, 11:00am - 2:30pm
Untsu: At the Quw’utsun Plant Nursery in the Cowichan Bay Estuary
Activity: Food and Medicine Native Species Planting
Quw'utsun Mustimuhw are invited to meet at the Cowichan Bay
Estuary and participate in this important step toward revitalizing the Quw’utsun Food System. Be part of history as 9,000 native food and medicinal species are planted in the nursery.
No Nursery Experience Needed - Training and Equipment Provided
For more details contact:
Upcoming BC Hydro Maintenance Project: What You Need to Know
As authorized by Lulumexun, BC Hydro will soon begin a wood pole maintenance program within Cowichan Tribes reserve lands, including Cowichan 1, Cowichan 9, Est-patrolas 4, Kil-pah-las 3, and Theik 2.This Test and Treat program is part of BC Hydro’s ongoing efforts to ensure public safety, reliable electricity service, and long-term sustainability. No power outages are required as part of this work.
Key Details:
•Scope: Poles will be inspected, tested for strength, and treated with wood preservatives to prevent or slow decay.
•Schedule: Maintenance begins 20 years a er poles are installed, with follow-up inspections and treatments every 10 years. Maintenance work will begin in November.
•Pole Replacement: Any pole that does not meet safety standards will be replaced.
How It Works:
•Internal Decay: Holes are drilled to assess strength and apply preservatives. Holes are sealed with plastic plugs a er treatment.
•External Decay: Soil is dug out from around the pole base to inspect for shell rot. If found, a preservative-coated bandage will be applied to the ground-line section.
Compliance & Safety:
•All activities follow the BC Ministry of Environment’s Integrated Pest Management Act and BC Hydro’s Pest Management Plan.
•Only certified and licensed contractors will perform the work and BC Hydro will oversee all inspections and treatments to ensure safety and environmental compliance.
QUESTIONS?
Community members can contact Lulumexun
Property Tax and Land Management Coordinator, Rowena Edwards during office hours at: (236)800-4023 or: lands@cowichantribes.com.
Environmental Opportunities
Volunteer
Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre: No special qualifications required, training is provided. https://www.cowichanestuary.ca/volunteer/
Stqeeye’ Learning Society: Every Thursday at 9:30am, volunteers can meet at Our Grandmother’s Garden in Burgoyne Bay to help with traditional wetland garden restoration. Transportation assistance available. Contact: Maiya@Stqeeye.ca, or visit: www.stqeeye.ca.
Employment
Marine Project Coordinator: The Esquimalt Nation is accepting applications for this full-time position. The successful applicant will play a key role in developing and coordinating marine related projects and initiatives, while assisting in marine monitoring and emergency response. They will also be responsible for coordinating community events and engaging with partner agencies and Nations. For full job description, visit: https://www.esquimaltnation.ca/employment/view/102-marine-project-coordinator
Youth Science Ambassador: Ocean Networks Canada is now accepting applications for this part-time, remote position for Coastal BC Indigenous Youth between 18 – 30 years old. Successful applicants will explore their local environment and connect educators and students with ocean data and Indigenous Knowledge. This position offers training in introductory oceanography, data, and ocean technology. For more details, visit: https://www.oceannetworks.ca/about-onc/jobs-and-opportunities/
Events
Watershed Forum 2024: On November 26 - 28, the BC Conservation Foundation, Redd Fish Restoration Society, and the Iisaak Olam Foundation are holding this event for First Nations and allies to foster relationship building and knowledge transfer to encourage collaboration and effective ecological restoration across coastal watersheds. The three-day event will be held at Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Resort in Parksville, BC. For more details, visit: https://www.watershedforum.com/
TL’ULPA LUS
Biodiversity Beyond Boundaries: Mobilizing Data for the Future of our Shared Waters: On November 5, 8, and 13, the Northeast Pacific Biodiversity Action Network will be holding webinars involving multiple communities in the Salish Sea to discuss biodiversity data mobilization. They are building capacity for the mobilization of biodiversity data by sharing case studies, best practices, and protocols. To register, visit: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYucOquqjovHdFCCnl2QCZaf1rzkYViPZw_#/registration
N ’ Field Exercise
On October 7, Cowichan Tribes Emergency Services department participated in a field day working with Pauquachin and Tseycum Nations to practice readiness to respond to marine oil incidents. The work included deploying protection and containment boom as well as laying anchors to ensure the booms stayed in location. Participating in these practice exercises improves our preparedness and ability to respond to emergency events, as well as working closely with partner Nations for support and coordinated efforts.
Emergency Services is working on developing strategies for oil spill response in the coastal water around the Cowichan Bay and beyond.
If you want to find out more information about the programs and initiatives that the Emergency Services Department is working on, please feel free to reach out.
(778)901-9111
emergency@cowichantribes.com
Flood Preparedness
Our thoughts and prayers go out to those impacted by the catastrophic Hurricanes in Florida. It is an important reminder of the challenges communities can experience during a disaster. With winter storm season around the corner, Emergency Services is reminding individuals and families about the resources available to help you prepare for emergencies and evacuations.
We want to help ensure individuals in our community are prepared and understand:
KWA’MUTS U N
•Where to get your information
•Who to connect with, if you or your loved ones are evacuated
•How to make an emergency plan
•The importance of having a Grab and Go Bag
There are roughly seven Cowichan reserves impacted every fall and winter by flooding. We strongly encourage our citizens to take the time to get ready and have a plan. Being aware and prepared is the key to staying safe during the flood season.
IMPORTANT RESOURCES
Prepared BC Flood preparedness guide
BC Ministry of Transportation road and travel advisories
Emergency Info BC Find current and official information during emergencies in B.C.
ADDITIONAL EMERGENCY RESOURCES
Drive BC for road conditions advisories
Environment Canada weather alerts for B.C
How to Pre-pack a grab and go bag (include necessities like medication)
The BCeID is an account that provides secure access to online government services.
Important to know:
•The registration is a 5-step process.
•It'll take about 10 minutes to complete.
•Service BC staff will support the identity confirmation process onsite.
•Getting a BCeID will allow you to access the ERA Tool APP.
The Evacuee Registration & Assistance (ERA) is a provincially funded program that provides basic supports like accommodation, food, clothing and other temporary supports to people who are evacuated during an emergency event.
Once you have a BCeID, you'll gain access to the ERA tool, which offers several benefits:
•Receive Electronic Money Transfers (EMT): No more waiting in line for gi cards or supplier agreements.
•Quick Support Access: Get quicker assistance during emergencies like fire or flood.
KWA’MUTSUN
•Home Emergency Planning: Access resources to create a home emergency plan.
•Grab-and-Go Bag: How to prepare essential items for emergencies efficiently.
Meet our Maintenance Team
Walter George Maintenance Worker
Dale Casey Maintenance Worker
Jeff Bonar Asset and Project Manager
Frank Charlie Maintenance Worker
Dennis Seymour Maintenance Manager
Marc Modeste Maintenance Worker
Each year, SHD receives more than 1500 service requests and spends hundreds of thousands of dollars on maintenance for rental units, Elder and private homes. Our team works diligently to serve the needs of the Quw’utsun community. We ask our valued community to show be respectful and follow policy when a maintenance worker is visiting your home.
PLEASE REMEMBER:
Our maintenance team will not move personal belongings or debris in order to fix a maintenance issue. If you have items in the way of repair, our team is instructed to leave the home without completing the work.
It is extremely important to keep personal items and debris away from your electrical panel. At least 1 metre of clearance is required around electrical panels.
If a maintenance worker is in your home, please allow them the space to complete the work without interference. We appreciate your continued support for our maintenance team.
www.cowichantribes.com/housing
Feeling chilled?
Heat your space safely.
Place on a flat, level surface
Plug it directly into an outlet
Do not use around small children or pets
Only leave on when you are at home
Keep flammable items at least 3 feet away
Make sure the cord is not frayed or cracked
Do not use an extension cord or power strip
Do not use if prongs are damaged
3 out of 4 home fires in the last 18 months have been caused by inappropriate use of electronic devices.
Call us Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM 12:00 PM & 1:00 PM 4:30 PM BY EMAIL
Send us a message at shd.maintenance@cowichantribes.com. LEAVE US A MESSAGE ON OUR WEBSITE
Ask us a question or share some feedback at www.cowichantribes.com/housing PAY RENT
Send an e Transfer to directdeposit@cowichantribes.com
Remember to include your rental address and tenant name(s) when sending your payment.
CHECK US OUT ON FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/ cowichantribeshousing/
PEST MANAGEMENT
Call (250) 715 3302 to book a pest consultation. Visit www.cowichantribes.com/pest control for more information on pest prevention and management.
Prepare your home for flood season
DON’T WORRY, BE READY
Obtain home insurance with flood coverage.
Keep eaves troughs clean and downspouts directed well away from the home.
Make sure your perimeter drains are functioning properly. Clogged perimeter drainage systems can cause water to accumulate, increasing the risk of flooding in your home.
Talk to your insurance provider about your risk and additional steps you can take to protect your home.
Protect your valuables by storing them in waterproof containers on shelving above potential water levels or moving them to upper floors.
Add window wells and covers to windows that are near or below ground level.
Ensure landscaping is properly sloped away from your home. Remember to clear and trim away blackberry bushes around your septic system.
KWA’MUTSUN
Install a backwater valve and ensure it remains properly maintained.
Find your floor drain and make sure nothing is covering it like boxes, furniture or carpet.
Install a sump pump, backup pump and power supply. Ensure all are in working order and test them regularly
www.cowichantribes.com/housing
Remove exterior water hoses from the faucet in the winter to prevent the pipes from freezing. Turn off the water to the exterior pipes to prevent leaking in the Spring.
CHECK OUT THE COWICHAN TRIBES COMMUNITY RESOURCE GUIDE CONTEST
ENTER TO WIN OUR MONTHLY PRIZE!
1.
Click HERE or scan QR code to see the Fall/Winter 2024 Cowichan Tribes Community Resource Guide
3.
Scan the QR code to submit your entry online or enter in-person at the Administration Building reception desk
FOLLOW THESE FOUR EASY STEPS
Find the featured Snuw’uy’ulh teaching each month 2.
4.
4.
Enter your information and the Hul’q’umi’num’ spelling of the featured Snuw’uy’ulh teaching of the month
CONTEST RULES
•One entry per person per month can be submitted between the first and last day of the month
•Only Quw’utsun Mustimuhw (Cowichan members) can enter
•Each entry will also be entered in the Grand prize draw (Will be drawn in April 2025)
HINT See pages 21-22 of the Guide
RIVERS EDGE
On September 12, 2024, KDLLP celebrated the groundbreaking of the 200-unit River’s Edge housing project, marking a bright future for Cowichan citizens. We honor the descendants of Edgar Williams and appreciate the Thomas family’s support for this development, which will offer some below-market rental homes, with the first right of refusal for Cowichan citizens.
“Rivers Edge stands as a symbol of what we can achieve together,” said Renée Olson, KDC interim CEO. The design, crafted by architects and engineers, reflects the significance of the Cowichan River, the land, and the values Cowichan Tribes citizens place on family. Rivers Edge will provide essential housing for Cowichan Tribes and community members.
KDLLP is advancing its construction plans by awarding the construction management contract for pre-construction to Knappett Projects Inc. They are currently negotiating a fixed-price construction contract and engaging with BC Housing, Canada Infrastructure Bank, and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) to secure construction and take-out financing.
CONTACT INFORMATION
(250)746-8350
www.khowutzun.com
200 Cowichan Way, Duncan, BC V9L 6P4
INDIGENOUS YOUTH ENTREPRENEUR SUMMIT
Two Cowichan youth, Raeanne George and Dorian Seward, attended the 2nd Annual Indigenous Youth Entrepreneur Summit and Career Fair. They engaged in team-building activities with peers from different nations, networking and forming valuable connections with experienced business professionals.
KWA’MUTSUN
Participants were grouped and tasked with creating a mock business from scratch. The top team won a $10,000 prize to help launch their business ventures. Congratulations to Dorian for winning the grand prize with his team! Although Raeanne did not win, she gained valuable insights into the hard work of starting a business.
KDC and our partners, M.R. Crane, Knappett, and Gordon N, Gordon, made this opportunity possible by sponsoring the two youth to attend. We extend our gratitude to our partners for their generous contributions. Huy tseep q'u siem.
Dorian Seward (left)
Raeanne George (far right)
JOIN US FOR A
QUW UTSUN CHRISTMAS DINNER
WEDNESDAY, DEC 4 AT 5:00PM
SI’EM LELUM GYM 5574 River Rd, Duncan
Door prizes Food
Photos with the GRINCH