Nestled in the majestic mountains of the Fraser Valley, 140 km east of Vancouver, BC, lies the home of the Chawathil First Nation. Our people have lived here for thousands of years, in a land that once spanned much of what is now Hope and the surrounding areas.

For centuries, the natural resources of our territory have sustained us, providing for our needs and shaping our way of life. We live communally, guided by the wisdom of our elders, who teach us the importance of respect and harmony.

We are the Stó:lō people, the “river people,” who rely on the river and land for our survival and livelihood. Our shared language, Halq’eméylem (Hal-ko-me-lem), is part of the Coast Salish language family and binds us together.

Our ancestors moved throughout this land, fishing, hunting, and gathering to sustain their lives. Today, we continue to use these resources, honoring our traditions while also embracing new opportunities for economic and cultural growth.