fly in V formation Liimus (April) 2025
SUBSCRIPTION
Off-reserve Cowichan Members: $48.00/year Free mail subscription for Sul-hween (Elders) who live off-reserve. Contact: Communications@cowichantribes.com or phone (250)748-3196 to be transferred to Communications
Full Page Color: $263.00
for May 2025 Newsletter Submission: April 16, 2025
Please submit via Publisher, Word or Canva (with edit link) SEND TO: Cowichan Tribes Communications communications@cowichantribes.com
‘Uy’ skweyul siiem nu siiye’yu,
I’d like to start by encouraging our community members to participate in our upcoming engagement opportunities for the development of our Comprehensive Community Plan. Survey and event opportunities will be shared on our website here: https://cowichantribes.com/CCP2025 and on our social media channels. Your input is essential to ensuring the plan prioritizes what matters most to our citizens.
I also want to make sure our community is aware of the Second Generation Cut-off consultation process. Chief and Council will be hosting Indigenous Services Canada for a presentation on this important issue which affects our membership. More information is available in the Citizenship section of this newsletter. Citizenship will also be conducting a survey and hosting events for our community in April and May, so please watch for updates about how to participate.
March was a busy month with many important meetings and activities. I participated as interviewer for Indigenous Police Services (IPS). Once confirmed, the recruit will complete our division with four members. Announcements will be forthcoming.
I was pleased to participate in a tour and CBC interview regarding the Quw’utsun Food Systems Revitalization Project at the Cowichan Estuary on March 12, alongside our staff from Lulumexun and our partners from the Nature Trust of British Columbia and the UBC Indigenous Ecology Lab. This tour was an important opportunity to feature the nursery planted there, Hulitun Spulhxun Tumuhw (Nurturing Fields), and how our Indigenous agriculture practices produced enough food for thousands of people. Especially in the context of climate change, with both increased flooding and drought, restoring Indigenous stewardship practices and food systems provides many benefits, including innovative and low impact approaches to creating more sustainable and resilient food systems.
Additional activities in March included:
March 15: I attend the annual fundraiser for the new Cowichan District Hospital at Brentwood College, which was well attended and a wonderful meal was served. This is my second year supporting this event.
March 30: Meeting with the Honourable Randene Neill, BC Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship to discuss priority sustainability initiatives including the Cowichan Lake Weir, Koksilah Water Sustainability Plan, and the Cowichan Estuary Restoration and Quw’utsun Food Systems Revitalization Projects.
March 31: Treaty Update Community Meeting to share information with community regarding lands acquisitions, the Island Rail Corridor, North Cowichan Municipal forest lands, land jurisdiction initiatives and more.
Huy tseep q’u, Chief Cindy Daniels (Sulsulxumaat)
Chief and Council Meetings - Report to the Community
DATE OF MEETING: FEBRUARY 11, 2025
1. Agenda Item: RCMP IPS Reports (October to December 2024) and Letter of Expectation Mandate (2025/26)
Department: Administration
Decision Made: RCMP representatives from the Indigenous Policing Services (IPS) team presented the report and letter of expectation mandate to Council. After discussion, Council moved to table the Letter of Expectation Mandate (2025/26) until the next Chief and Council Meeting on February 25, 2025.
2. Agenda Item: Business Governance
Presentation – MNP
Department: Governance
Decision Made: Council approved the proposed structure and tasked Cowichan Tribes Administration with proceeding with implementation.
3. Agenda Item: Implications of the Cowichan TribesQuw’utsun Syuw’entst Lelum Agency Relationship
Department: Qu’wutsun Syuw’entst Lelum
Decision Made: Council directs Woodward and Company Lawyers LLP to revise the limitation of liability provisions in the draft Squw’utsun’a’lh Sniw’ ‘u tu Stutul’na’mut to attempt to provide greater protections for Cowichan Tribes as set out in the memorandum of Woodward and Company Lawyers LLP dated February 4, 2025.
4. Agenda Item: Citizenship Applications
Department: Citizenship
Decision Made: Chief and Council approved the following recommendations made by the Citizenship Committee:
• Accept one new citizenship application
• Approve one transfer to Cowichan Tribes request
• Table one request to remove an individual from the Citizenship list.
Council decision: Council tabled the band council resolution for the removal request from the Cowichan Tribes Citizenship list until a Chief and Council Meeting in March, and requested Pauline Thorne, Acting Citizenship Manager, review the terms of Land Status with the citizens.
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 office.
DATE OF MEETING: FEBRUARY
25, 2025
1. Agenda Item: RCMP – Tabled Letter of Expectation Department: Administration
Decision Made: Chief and Council approved the current Letter of Expectation provided by the RCMP at its February 25, 2025 meeting.
2. Agenda Item: New BC SPCA Facility Department: Outside Agency
Decision made: Discussed the next steps for the new BC SPCA facility. Council motioned to table the “next steps for the new SPCA” item and refer it to the Elder’s Advisory Committee.
3. Agenda Item: Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with North Cowichan Department: Governance
Decision made: Cowichan Tribes Chief and Council and the Municipality of North Cowichan met to discuss a possible MOU to work together on the old Cowichan High School site. Governance staff presented edits to the draft MOU presented by the municipality. Chief and Council approved the edited MOU for the Cowichan Secondary School Redevelopment Project and approved the MOU to be forwarded to North Cowichan for review.
4. Agenda Item: Multiple Items Department: Finance
a) FNFA Revenue Pledge – 222 Cowichan Way (River’s Edge Project)
Decision Made: Chief and Council approved the takeout financing for the River’s Edge Project through the First Nations Financing Authority (FNFA). It approved the pledging of revenue stream(s) to FNFA to satisfy the borrowing law requirement.
b) Proposed Revisions to Band Council Resolutions – KDC
Decision Made: Council moved to table the 8a (1) July 23 band council resolution adjustment to the March 11, 2025, Council meeting.
c) QKE – Loan Repayment
Decision Made: Council accepted Quw’utsun Kw’atlka Enterprise Limited’s (QKE) request to start repaying the $1,200,893 loan (over ten years) and directed Administration to engage legal counsel to set the term and make necessary adjustments to the QKE ltd./Cowichan Tribes loan agreement dated September 2020.
d)QKE – Class B Share Transfer
Decision Made: Council approved the Class B Share Transfer.
e) Q2 Financial Results (Economic Development)
Decision Made: Just providing an update.
f)
Promissory Note – BC Housing
Decision Made: Council moved to table the promissory note from B.C. Housing of $100,000 for the design costs and to get further information for the March 11, 2025, Chief and Council meeting.
g) Elder’s Insurance Program – Risk Review and Alternative Proposal
Decision Made: Council instructs Cowichan Tribes Administration to withdraw from seeking renewal for the Group Elder’s Insurance Policy at the end of its current term on May 31, 2025.
Council instructs the Cowichan Tribes Administration to develop the required materials and processes to roll out the enhanced insurance reimbursement program with a maximum reimbursement of $1,200 per Elder at the maturity of this year’s group plan insurance coverage.
h) 2025 Property Tax Exemption Requests
Decision Made: Council motioned to exempt First Nation businesses on Cowichan Tribes’ reserve land from paying property tax (7 businesses in total). For information on status exemption for First Nation businesses on Cowichan Tribes’ reserve, contact Lulumexun.
The Collaborative Process on the Second Generation Cut-off
Due to inequities created by Canada through the Indian Act and its amendments, Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) launched the Collaborative Process on the Second-Generation Cut-off to consult with First Nations and Indigenous groups on possible solutions to this issue.
Will the Second Generation Cut-off affect your children and grandchildren?
The Second Generation Cut-off prevents many First Nations people with status under the Indian Act from passing entitlement on to their children and grandchildren because of the person with whom they chose to parent. It is predicted that currently 18% of the Cowichan Tribes membership is affected by the Second Generation Cut-off and it could impact the number of citizens for generations to come.
The Citizenship Team will be starting consultation throughout April and May with all Quw’utsun citizens. Watch our social media and upcoming newsletters for survey information, events, and other opportunities to connect and engage on this important issue affecting the future of our Nation. Please call Citizenship at (250) 748-3196 or email membership@cowichantribes.com for inquires.
Citizenship Department
5760 Allenby Rd
Duncan, BC V9L 5J1
Phone: 250-748-3196
Email: membership@cowichantribes.com
Citizenship committee meets July 17, 2025.
Applicants please submit by July 10, 2025.
to our 405 Cowichan Citizens born in April!
Introducing the 4th Edition of the Cowichan Tribes Department Guide!
COMMUNITY RESOURCE GUIDE
SPRING/SUMMER 2025
We’re excited to share with you our updated and expanded guide, designed to better serve our community.
What's New?
• More Resources – Including external agencies to provide a wider range of supports for Quw’utsun Mustimuhw.
• Updated Information - Sharing recent changes to our departments, programs, and services
Scan QR Code or Click HERE to access the guide
PUBLIC WORKS (Capital Projects and O & M) Has Moved!
Public Works appreciates your understanding as we are resolving changes to our phone system, including a change in phone number. Updates on progress will be shared with the community.
A celebration and tour of the new space is being planned for this spring/summer. Details will be shared when a date is confirmed.
If you have any questions with any of these projects, please contact the Public Works Department at (250) 715-3302 or Public.Works@cowichantribes.com
Are you a Certificate of Possession (CP) holder who may be interested in selling all, or a portion of, your CP land to Cowichan Tribes for the purpose of building more community projects?
For more information about this important contribution to community, please contact Lauren Miller in the Public Works Department at (250) 715-3302.
Project Updates
Quw’utsun Smun’eem Elementary Expansion
Capital Projects has received $1.37 million in funding from Indigenous Services Canada to complete the design phase of the expansion to Quw’utsun Smun’eem Elementary School.
Quw’utsun Smun’eem Elementary school currently has classroom space for children in kindergarten through to grade 3 in the school and grade 4 in a portable. The expansion will include classroom space up to, and including grade 7.
A kick off meeting was held in March to get the design process started and to identify the needs and wants to be included in the design. A schedule of community consultations is being developed to ensure the community is included in the design process. Additional information will be released as it becomes known.
Although this is not yet a “bucket in the ground” start to construction, it is a step forward after many years waiting. We raise our hands to the community for your continued patience with this project and support in moving it forward.
Lhumlhumuluts’ Low-Pressure Sewer System
Public Works is pleased to share that the Lhumlhumuluts’ Low-Pressure Sewer System (ICMS 130834 – Zone 7) Project is nearing completion, with final work expected to be finished soon as only minor deficiencies and surface restoration remain.
The project has successfully connected 24 homes and the Lhumlhumuluts’ Longhouse to a new STEP (Septic Tank E uent Pump) low-pressure sewer system, replacing aging and failing septic systems. Each home and the Longhouse received:
•A new septic tank
•A pump and pump panel
•A service line connecting to a sewer force main along the main road
E uent from these connections is now transported to the municipal sewer system, ensuring a more reliable and sustainable wastewater solution. All existing septic tanks and fields have been decommissioned. A one-year maintenance period for the installed system is set to begin at the end of March 2025. Thank you for your patience and cooperation throughout this project. We look forward to its successful completion.
Emergency Services Has Moved!
Emergency Preparedness Recomendations
As the winter season begins to wrap up, we start to prune trees, plan our gardens, and reflect on the lessons we have learned. With many of our homes situated in the flood plain and three recent earthquakes, now is the time to:
Prepare
a Grab and Go Bag
Is your Grab and Go bag ready? Now is a good time to prepare a bag, or restock your current bag and check the item’s expiry dates. These small emergency bags can be prepared for home, workplace, and vehicle use.
•Food (ready to eat) and water
•Phone charger and battery bank
•Small battery-powered or hand-crank radio
•Battery-powered or hand-crank flashlight
•Extra batteries
•Small first-aid kit and personal medications
•Personal toiletries and items, such as an extra pair of glasses or contact lenses
•Copy of your emergency plan
•Copies of important documents, such as insurance papers and identification
•Cash in small bills
•Local map with your family meeting place identified
•Seasonal clothing and an emergency blanket
•Pen and notepad
•Whistle
Visit the below links for additional information
Firesmart your home
FireSmart your home and help increase its resistance to damage caused by a wildland fire or house fire. The steps involved for your yard and contents inside your home play a crucial role in fire safety.
Spring Cleaning Tips for Fire Safety: Declutter your home
•Clutter can block the movement of firefighters, evacuees, and necessary equipment that could save the lives of tenants and responders.
•Declutter your home to ensure escape routes like hallways, stairways, and doorways are clear to allow a quick and safe response for firefighters and not hinder their efforts.
•Decluttering can also help contain fire more effectively and prevent fire from spreading rapidly to other parts of the home
•Reducing the amount of flammable items in your home will allow firefighters to quickly and e ciently extinguish the flames, and reduce the amount of debris allowing for an easier cleanup and process of determining damaged areas.
Quake Cottage
You're invited to join the Emergency Services team at the Cowichan Tribes Open House! Come and experience the “Quake Cottage” earthquake simulator
The simulator will give you a realistic simulation of an almost 8.0 magnitude major quake for 30 seconds.
BC Earthquake Alliance Society and Canadian Red Cross will also be providing fun, interactive activities to help you learn more about earthquake, tsunami and emergency preparedness.
For a chance to win a prize, make sure to spin the trivia wheel!
Day:May21,2025
Time: 11:00am-2:00pm
Place: Si’emLelumGym
Salish Unity Tabletop Exercise
On February 25-27, the Emergency Services team participated in the Salish Unity Tabletop Exercise in Victoria to practice responding to a Maritime Mass Rescue Operation.
The exercise brought together International, Federal, Provincial, First Nations, Municipal, and Private Sector partners to focus on practicing how to deploy limited resources during a large response operation. By working together and combining resources, the partners created a mock response to an incident with a passenger ferry carrying 1000 people across the Salish Sea between Victoria and Port Angeles.
Cowichan Tribes Emergency Services Department has been working with partner organizations to ensure response training for different types of events is happening regularly so the team is prepared for any possible incidents that could affect the community and environment.
Drone Research Technology Project
Cowichan Tribes Emergency Services is continuing to work with partners to further develop the ability to use drones to increase safety and response capabilities on our traditional
On February 27, the Emergency Services team gathered near the Siem Lelum gym with partners from University of Victoria Advanced Control and Intelligent Systems (ACIS) lab, National Research Council (NRC) and InDro Robotics to field test a drone carrying prototype aerial technology to autonomously map areas of interest to support better risk management for natural disasters like flood and wildfire.
The goal for this type of AI powered technology is to collect data by surveying terrain, buildings and infrastructure that will identify areas of concern and proactively mitigate risks of damage to the community and the environment.
Yuthuy’thut Training Program Quw’utsun Hu-Yi’xwule’
What’s Been Happening at Our School? &
It’s been an action-packed year at our school! We’ve had so many awesome adventures in addition to our in-class learning.
Here are some of the land based, hands-on experiences our students have been up to:
We got to be creative and make and paint our own drums with the very knowledgeable Hwiemtun
We took a trip to the Malahat Skywalk for epic views and a walk in the trees
We are learning the art of cedar weaving with Karla Joe, and the students are making beautiful baskets. We got to go spearfishing in the fall, and even came home with some salmon!
We explored the Royal BC Museum for a closer look at the history and culture of our province.
About Our School
Are you a grade 8-12 student, or adult learner, interested in joining us in the fun? Sign up and be part of the excitement!
Address: 5594 River Road, Duncan Phone: (250)746-7170
Quw'utsun Syuw'entst Lelum' Tutoring Program
Need some help with your school work?
Who: Cowichan Students in grades 6-12
When: Drop in Tuesday & Thursday 3:30-5:30 pm
Where: Yuthuy'thut School 5594 River Road (across from the gym)
For Registration Information Contact Brad: Email: Brad.Toporowski@cowichantribes.com Phone: (250) 746-7170 Join us in the Tutor Program!
Early application day
Apply with Quw’utsun Syuw’entst Lelum for Cowichan Tribes’ Schools, Daycare & Student Transportation along with participating Public & Private Schools. Stop by if you have questions about a particular school and to complete your child(ren)’s 2025-26 QSL Nominal Roll Application
WHEN: Monday, April 28, 2025 11:00 a.m - 5:00 p.m
WHERE: Si’em Lelum Dining Hall
CONTACT: Call the office if you have any questions (250) 715-1022 DOOR PRIZES AND SNACKS AVAILABLE!
Liimus (April) SUL-HWEEN SCHEDULE 2025
9:00-11:00am
Hul'q'umi'num' Class 9:30-11:30am
Hul'q'umi'num' Class 9:30-11:30am
Hul'q'umi'num'
Hul'q'umi'num' Class 9:30-11:30am
Hul'q'umi'num' Class 9:30-11:30am
Hul'q'umi'num'
Hul'q'umi'num' Class 9:30-11:30am
Hul'q'umi'num'
9:30-11:30am
9:30-11:30am
GOOD FOOD BAG PROGRAM
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 2025 dates indicating when money is due, and the date you will receive your Good Food Bag.
Quw’utsun Corner
Where we inspire and celebrate one another
Each month, we are 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.
The Sa’qw’thut Culturally Grounded Treatment Program welcomes people on a recovery journey to connect with others who are walking a similar path and share their experiences. Seven Quw’utsun Elders provide ongoing cultural guidance to the program staff and participants; three are featured here based on recent interviews.
“I’m honoured to be a part of Sa’qw’thut as an Elder, even though I feel like I’m too young to be an Elder,” smiles Suhiltanaut, Elder Debbie Modeste. She believes one of the key supports provided is the ability for our people to still live at home and access these services. “People can attend as they feel the need to attend. It’s not mandatory to be there every day, on time. Instead, it’s designed to accommodate their needs. There’s no judgment or shame.”
When the session begins, attendees are greeted with smiles, laughter, hugs, and joy. You can feel the warmth and closeness between participants, staff, and the Elders who helped develop and continue to guide the program.
Quw’utsun Sul-hween bring Culture and Connection to the Sa’qwu’thut Treatment Program
This month we are honouring our Elders who are at the heart of the community and healing this program offers.
To learn more, contact Deanna (250) 732-3487
Deanna.Thompson@cowichantribes.com
Tl’i’ to’ mukw’ mustimuhw - Each person is important
The opposite of addiction is connection
Sa'qw'thut means (assisting) someone to find out about themselves. The Sa’qw’thut day program provides Quw’utsun Mustimuhw and their families chances to create lasting connection, intergenerational healing, and positive social connections, using a culturally grounded foundation for recovery from addictions, substance misuse, and trauma. Run by Kwun’atsustul Counselling, Sa'qw'thut is an inclusive and ongoing therapeutic community rooted in the Snuw'uy'ulh (Quw'utsun teachings), with Quw'utsun families on Quw'utsun land.
Hun’tsuw’iiyus, Elder Ernie Elliott, believes basing the program on the Snuw’uy’ulh is important as they are an integral part of Quw’utsun identity. “I like to remind participants in the program who they are and where they came from and some of the things they belong to.” He shares how members are a part of a larger community steeped in history, tradition and culture. He encourages people to “find the answers within themselves” using the teachings as a guide.
Program participants are invited to get involved in various activities and have access to additional resources as requested, including counselling, treatment coordinators, youth services, and referrals to medical supports (i.e., addictions physicians). The program incorporates the Cowichan teachings as a guideline to provide a safe environment, where all are respected, and everyone is equal.
One Sa’qw’thut attendee said she enjoys seeing our sul-hween and appreciates their involvement in the program. “I want to thank them for sharing their stories with us and teaching us about our Snuw’uy’ulh and our language.”
The Sa’qw’thut Elders and the program staff are ready to support Quw’utsun Mustimuhw at any stage of their recovery or healing journey. The program runs four days a week, Tuesday – Friday 11:00 am – 3:00 pm, and transportation can be provided.
“We are waiting for you with open arms to walk through the door,” nods Tsulhwuletse, Elder John George, inviting Quw’utsun Mustimuhw who are facing addiction, substance misuse, or trauma to join Sa’qw’thut. “Everyone is welcome to sit with us and to learn alongside us. It doesn’t matter how old you are or how young you are, the door is always open.”
ErnieElliott
John George
Our Health. Our Way. Join us on this journey
The Community Health and Wellness Plan identifies four circles of support:
1st Circle
Yourself - Your journey starts with you.
As Quw’utsun Mustimuhw, there are teachings and medicine inside of each of us that provide strength, wisdom, connection and belonging.
2nd Circle Family and Community
Embracing family and friends to support your journey.
3rd Circle
Ts’ewulhtun Health Centre
Using programs and resources to support your health and wellness.
4th Circle
Cowichan Tribes & Community Partners
Understanding how to access other community supports.
1st Circle Self
Being confident in my beliefs, teachings and strenghts.
medicineThereareteachings& inside of each of usthatprovidestrength, wisdom, connection & belonging.
COMMING TOGETHER TO CONNECT, BUILD AND HEAL
CULTURE
3rd Circle
Ts’ewulhtun Health Centre
Using programs and resources to support your health and wellness.
Community Health & Wellness Plan
Vision Board
Ts’its’uw’ atul. syaayssh-hwuysNuts’umatkwun’kwtho’ mukw’
2nd Circle
Family and Community Embracing family and friends to support your journey.
4th Circle
Cowichan Tribes & Community Partners
Understanding how to access other community supports.
EMBRACING LIFE & YOUTH SERVICES SCHEDULE
Liimus (April) 2025
in: 3:00-9:00pmDrop in: 3:00-9:00pmDrop in: 3:00-9:00pmDrop in: 3:00-9:00pm
Drop in: 3:00-9:00pm
Youth Cooking Night 4:00-6:00pm Youth Cooking Night 4:00-6:00pm
3:00-9:00pm
Youth Cooking Night 4:00-6:00pm
Drop in: 3:00-9:00pm (Cultural Art Day) Drop in: 3:00-9:00pm (Cultural Art Day) Drop in: 3:00-9:00pm (Cultural Art Day) Drop in: 3:00-9:00pm (Cultural Art Day) Drop in: 3:00-9:00pmDrop in: 3:00-9:00pmDrop in: 3:00-9:00pmDrop in: 3:00-9:00pm
Drop in: 3:00-9:00pm Drop in: 3:00-9:00pm Drop in: 3:00-9:00pm
Drop in: 3:00-9:00pm Drop in: 3:00-9:00pm Drop in: 3:00-9:00pm
SLUMBER SATURDAYS!
STARTING APRIL 5TH 3PM-9PM
COME JOIN THE FUN AT THE COWICHAN TRIBES YOUTH CENTRE AS WE ENJOY OUR FAVORITE MOVIES, GAMES, CRAFTS, AND DELICIOUS BAKED GOODS – ALL WHILE ROCKING OUR COMFIEST PAJAMAS!
470 TRANS CANADA HWY (BACK ENTRANCE OFF WHISTLER STREEET)
STSI’ELH STUHW TU SMUN’EEM
HONOURING OUR SACRED FAMILIES AND CHILDREN
Cowichan Tribes ~ Child & Family Services
5766 Allenby Road, Duncan, BC V9L 5J1
Phone: (250) 746-1002 Fax: 250.746.7745
From Section 3 of our Snuw’uy’ulhtst tu Quw’utsun Mustimuhw u’ tu Shhw’a’luqwa’ i’ Smun’eem [Laws of the Cowichan People for Families and Children] ~ pages 12 and 13
3. Minimum Standards
3.3 Reasonable efforts must be made to obtain information about the views and preferences of the Smun’eem under subsection 3.2(g) in a manner that is culturally acceptable, taking into consideration the mental, physical and psychological capacity of the Smun’eem.
3.4 In order to promote substantive equality between a Smun’eem and other children, a jurisdictional dispute must not result in a gap in the Child and Family Services that are provided in relation to the Smun’eem.
Effect of Services
3.5 The Guiding Principles must direct the provision of Child and Family Services in a manner which has the effect of realizing the intent and purpose of this Law.
Socio-Economic Conditions
3.6 To the extent that it is consistent with the best interests of the Smun’eem, a Smun’eem must not be removed from their Parents solely on the basis of their socio-economic conditions, including poverty, lack of adequate housing or infrastructure or the state of health of their Parent or the Care Provider.
3.7 Where there are concerns about a Smun’eem due to socio-economic conditions, service providers will assist Parents and work to improve the socio-economic conditions through available resources, in order to meet the best interests of the Smun’eem.
3.9 To the extent that providing a service that promotes preventive care to support the Family of the Smun’eem is consistent with the best interests of the Smun’eem, the provision of that service will be given priority over other services.
3.10 If Support Services are not adequate to ensure the best interests of a Smun’eem, early intervention and community-based alternatives take priority over more intrusive measures.
Active Efforts
3.11 When providing any Child and Family Services, Active Efforts must be made to ensure the best interests of the Smun’eem are met.
Placement of a Child
3.12 When deciding where to place a Smun’eem, the CEO must consider the best interests of the Smun’eem, having regard to the safety of the Smun’eem and the Guiding Principles, and must place the Smun’eem in accordance with the following order of priority:
(a) with one of the Parents of the Smun’eem; (b) with a Family member of the Smun’eem;
(c) with a Citizen of another Cowichan Tribes Family residing in the vicinity of the usual place of residence of the Smun’eem; (d) with an Indigenous person; or (e) only if the Smun’eem cannot be safely placed under subsections (a) – (d), with a non-Indigenous person.
i. The CEO must not place a Smun’eem with a person under subsection (d) or (e), unless the CEO has first consulted with the Family of the Smun’eem and with the Sul-hween Committee and has determined the placement is in the best interests of the Smun’eem.
3.13 Taking into consideration the order of priority for placements in section 3.12, the possibility of placing the Smun’eem with or near Smun’eem who have the same Parent as the Smun’eem, or who are otherwise members of the Family of the Smun’eem, must be considered in the determination of whether a placement would be consistent with the best interests of the Smun’eem;
3.14 The placement of a Smun’eem must take into account the cultural practices and traditions of the Cowichan Tribes people, including ancestral rights and customary care practices.
3.15 In the context of providing Child and Family Services in relation to a Smun’eem, there must be reassessments taking into consideration the best interests of the Smun’eem,
(a) the Parent of the Smun’eem, if the Smun’eem does not reside with such a Parent; or (b) with another member of the Family of the Smun’eem, if the Smun’eem does not already reside with a member of their Family or a Parent.
3.16 In the context of providing Child and Family Services in relation to a Smun’eem, if the Smun’eem is not placed with a member of their Family in accordance with this Law, to the extent that doing so is consistent with the best interests of the Smun’eem, the attachment and emotional ties of the Smun’eem to each such member of their Family are to be promoted through Active Efforts.
LUM-STAM'SH PREVENTION PROGRAMS
INDIAN DANCE LIST
Sat Apr 5/25
Sat Apr 12/25
Sat July 12/25
Wed July 23/25
APRIL - NOVEMBER 2025
Charles Family Naming Scianew (Beecher Bay) 12pm table - work to follow
Phillip Johnny Sr & Veronica Kawell Memorial Snuneymuxw
Cicero & Darrell August Memorial Siem LeLum - Cowichan
Caroline Morris - Naming/Mask & Catherine (Kay)
Sager(nee:Thomas) Memorial Tsawout Gym
Mon Sept 1/25 Melanie (Bloss) Joe & Ike Bill Memorial Siem LeLum -Cowichan
Sat Sept 6/25 Pearl (Kookie) Harris Memorial Stz'uminus Gym
Sat Sept 13/25
Rice/Sylvester Naming Siem Lelum 12pm table - work to follow
Sat Sept 20/25 Norris Family Memorial Halalt Gymnasium 12pm table - work to follow
Sat Oct 11/25 Tricia & Glen Ahenakew Memorial Snuneymuxw
Sat Oct 18/25 Violet Florence Peter Memorial S'amuna
Sat Oct 25/25 Leonard Leon Seymour Memorial Stz'uminus
Sun Oct 26/25 Nathan Charlie Jr & Lucas Reid Memorial Lekwammen (Songhees)
Fri Oct 31/25 Mary Ann Gibson & Family S'amuna
Sat Nov 1/25 Dr. Stit'tum'atul'wut - Ruby Peter Memorial Quamichan
Fri Nov 7/25 Ethel Jack Memorial S'amuna
Sat Nov 8/25 Vernon (Charlie) Tom Memorial Tsartlip
Sun Nov 9/25 Lorina "rina" M.Jim Memorial Semalth-Kilgard
Sat Nov 15/25 Jerry Jack & Antoinette Antoine Memorial S'amuna
Sat Nov 15/25 Leonard Aleck Memorial Stz'uminus
Sat Nov 15/25 Carolyn Moses Memorial Tulalip,Wash
Fri Nov 21/25 Bernard Joe Memorial S'amuna
Fri Nov 21/25 Lydia Sam Memorial Tsartlip
Sat Nov 22/25 Edwards / Sampson & Frenchie Memorial Stz'uminus
Sat Nov 22/25 Michell & Dan Family Memorial Charlie Longhouse
Fri Nov 25/25 Sampson Family Memorial Tsartlip
Sat Nov 29/25
Edward Pally Dick,Gabrielle Charles & Christopher Frank Memorial Malahat
Sat Nov 29/25 Peter Brian Charlie Tha'latquin Memorial Charlie Longhouse
- To make any changes or additions for the Island, please contact Wayne Seward at (250) 382-3852 or wayne.seward0@gmail.com.
- Gatherings for the Mainland / USA contact Coleen Pierre-Johnny on the Facebook Smokehouse Dance List page.
April 22, 2025 is cheque day for May 2025
Mel Shun Um Job Readiness Program (MSU): Mel Shun Um has moved to 301 Brae Road. Please be patient while we work to furnish the space. Anne-Marie Reilander has been hired to teach Math and English for the Mel Shun Um Program, and to help clients move forward by meeting the grade level requirements for post-secondary, trades programs, and/or employment.
Band Social Development Workers are working with the MSU team to ensure full participation. Clients who have been referred to Pre-Employment Support by their Band Social Development Worker are asked to check-in with MSU as there are training opportunities available.
Quw’utsun Employment and Training (QET): QET is working to meet member needs and establish partnerships. The QET team is available to support members who secure employment and require work gear, and is looking forward to introducing training for members in the upcoming months.
Designated Band Representatives: Dora Swustus, Lori Guerin, and Courtney Manhas continue to work with Cowichan families to ensure families’ voices are heard. Social Development is hiring an Administrative Assistant to support the staff, working to furnish their o ce, and looking forward to hosting members for the Designated Band Representatives meeting with at Suite #1—225 Canada Avenue, Duncan, BC.
INCOME ASSISTANCE
•Monthly renewal declarations accepted April 1 - 10, 2025.
•T5 slips are available; please pick up from your Band Social Development Worker if you haven’t already.
•Change reports are required when someone moves in or out of home - to avoid interruption in shelter payments (rent, BC Hydro, Fortis).
PLEASE NOTE
Service Canada and Canada Revenue Agency will be on site April 23, 2025. If you have been notified by your Band Social Development Worker, please attend.
CONTACT
INFORMATION
5760 Allenby Rd, Duncan, BC V9L 5J1
(778) 422-2255
Environmental Opportunities
Volunteer
• Somenos Marsh Wildlife Society: On April 21, 10am – 12pm, water testing and sampling taking place at all four watershed creeks. Muster at the Somenos Dog Park where from transportation to the testing sites is provided. For more details, or to register, contact Phaedra Douglas, at: phaedra@somenosmarsh.com.
• Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre: No special qualifications required. Training provided. https://www.cowichanestuary.ca/volunteer/
• Cowichan Land Trust: Stream and wetland stewardship projects. Training and equipment provided. Contact: info@cowichanlandtrust.ca.
Employment
• Director of Marine Stewardship: Malahat Nation is accepting applications for this full-time, one-year term position. The successful applicant will be responsible for managing the Marine Stewardship program, including specialized monitoring and remediation projects, oil spill response, underwater noise, and habitat restoration. This position also requires financial management and strategic planning. For a full job posting, visit: https://malahatnation.com/jobs/post/91
• Beaver Restoration Assistant: The BC Wildlife Federation is accepting applications to assist with the 10,000 Wetlands Project, which aims to install 100 beaver dam analogues in BC to restore wetland and stream habitats. The position involves remote office work and extensive travel throughout BC. For a full job description, visit: https://bcwf.bc.ca/current-opportunities/
Events
• Bachelor of Indigenous Land Stewardship Info Session: On April 15, 4pm – 5pm, UBC is hosting this online webinar for students interested in enrolling in their Indigenous Land Stewardship program. The program trains future land stewards by combining Indigenous knowledge, governance, and sustainability through education led by Indigenous scholars. To register, visit: https://ubc.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0izY5bmFrgRgULA
• Canadian Marine Shipping Risk Forum - Beyond the Horizon: On April 17, at 10am, the Canadian nonprofit Clear Seas is hosting this webinar about the newly developed Collaborative Berth Scheduler, which uses AI technology to connect shipping vessels, pilotages, and ports to reduce anchorage times, reduce fuel consumption, and improve maritime safety. For more information and to register, visit: https://tinyurl.com/CSBeyond
Kw’atl’kwa Updates (Ocean) Updates
Program Updates from the S-hwu’hwa’us
Thi’lut Kw’atl’kwa
Forage Fish Survey
Our team is responsible for collecting monthly sediment samples from five beaches in Cowichan territory from Kilpahlus in Cowichan Bay to Clearwater Road in Cobble hill. The sediment samples are analyzed using microscopes to look for the presence of Pacific Sand Lance or Surf Smelt eggs. These forage fish species are critical prey for some salmon and marine mammal species. They spawn in the sediment of intertidal areas, which are increasingly threatened by foreshore development and other human impacts, such as vessel and shorebased contaminants. We share these data with our partners at the VIU Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region Research Institute. This important information eventually becomes shared open data as part of the Coastal Forage Fish Network. We are awaiting confirmation on several positive detections we’ve made at several sites over the past year. Stay tuned for more updates!
Sansum Narrows Acoustic Monitoring
For over a year, our hydrophones near the mouth of Hwtl’upnets (Maple Bay) and the base of Hwmet’utsum (Mt. Maxwell) have been continuously listening and collecting the sounds of passing boats, marine mammals, and other ocean noises. While data is still being analyzed, we have received confirmation of at least ten orca events captured by our hydrophones. Initial analysis also illustrates the immense pressure that acoustic marine mammals are under: of all the sites participating in the BC Hydrophone Network, ours is the only one entirely dominated by seasonal vessel noise. From May to September, massive decibel increases, particularly in frequencies sensitive to small vessels, dominate the hydrophone readings. Soon, anyone will be able to visit https://whalesound.ca/map/ and click on Cowichan Tribe’s dashboard to see, and hear, which whales have visited and other details about the area’s acoustic environment. At present, dashboards for other hydrophones, such as the Malahat Nation can be viewed. To learn when Cowichan Tribes’ dashboard goes live, and to receive other important updates about our hydrophone project, be sure to follow us on Facebook!
Cleaning your gutters and downspouts at least twice a year - usually in the spring and fall - helps prevent debris buildup, clogs, and water damage.
Look for leaks and signs of mould, take the time to inspect all windows, doors, bathrooms, and other places where damage from water could occur. SHD renters are required to report all water damage/leaks immidiately, please call an SHD Intake Clerk at (250) 715-3302
Check and clean out your outdoor dryer vent to minimize fire hazards.
Check your furnace filter every 30 to 60 days:
1.
Make sure your furnace is turned OFF so it doesn’t blow air when you remove the filter.
2.
Locate the filter housing on your furnace. This is different for each model, but you can normally find it between the air intake and the furnace.
3.
Open the compartment door and slide the filter out. Compare the size and type of replacement filter with the old one. The size should be printed on the side of the filter. If size information isn’t printed on the filter frame, measure the filter yourself, rounding up to the nearest half inch.
4. Secure the compartment cover.
Slide the new or cleaned filter in place with arrows pointing towards the furnace in the direction of airflow.
5.
www.cowichantribes.com/Housing (250) 715-3302
What is an HRV Unit ? HRV stands for Heat Recovery Ventilator. These systems use fresh air from outdoors to provide high indoor air quality through the removal of moisture, smoke, odors, heat, dust, airborne bacteria, carbon dioxide, and other gases as well as temperature control and oxygen replenishment.
Benefits of an HRV Unit:
Reduces indoor air pollutants
Reduces high levels of humidity and moisture
Retains heat by recycling from other sources Saves you money on your hydro bill
Make sure to turn off and unplug the unit from its power source before conducting any maintenance.
Your HRV requires regular maintenance to ensure it is in proper working condition. This maintenance includes cleaning the filters and the core of the machine. Most filters can be easily removed for cleaning in newer HRV units or can be replaced at a low cost in older units.
Proper care instructions for your HRV unit are located inside your manual. If you do not have a copy of your manual, please contact shd.maintenance@cowichantribes.com and a copy can be emailed to you.
Nothing Works:
Troubleshooting
Make sure the unit is plugged in
Make sure the unit is receiving power from the house circuit breaker
Press the push button once to make sure the unit is not in standby mode
Condensation on windows (air too humid):
If possible, turn the unit on high speed until the situation is corrected
Leave curtains half-open to allow air circulation
Store all firewood in a closed room or outdoors
Please contact the Sustainable Housing Department at (250) 715-3302 with requests for pest support. SHD has a list of trusted vendors. Invoices will not be paid in the event that a Citizen makes agreements with companies directly.
(Nurturing Fields) Nursery
