Quw’utsun Tribes Approve Education Law with 89% Support

Members of the Quw’utsun Mustimuhw, also known as the Cowichan Tribes, have decisively voted to adopt a new Education Law, with 89 percent in favor. The law, titled Squw’utsun’a’lh Sniw’ ‘u tu Stutul’na’mut, received a total of 307 votes, with 274 citizens supporting the initiative and 33 citizens opposing it. This vote took place on October 9, 2023, alongside an online voting period that ran from September 22 to October 9.

This significant decision marks a pivotal moment in the quest to enhance educational delivery for Quw’utsun smun’eem, or Cowichan children. According to a press release from Cowichan Tribes, the new law is a step towards establishing an education system deeply rooted in Quw’utsun teachings and values. Chief Cindy Daniels emphasized the importance of this vote, stating it helps the First Nation move away from the detrimental impacts of colonial education systems that have affected generations.

“Our citizens first voted to take back our jurisdiction over education in 2022,” Chief Daniels remarked. “Now, with this vote in favor of our own education law, we are another step closer to self-governance. As a residential school survivor, I know that adopting this law, which integrates our teachings, culture, and the Hul’q’umi’num’ language, will be transformative for our future.”

Framework for Cultural Education

The newly adopted law is grounded in Squw’utsun’a’lh Syuw’entst ‘i’ Snuw’uy’ulh, the traditional Quw’utsun teachings. It aims to create a culturally relevant education system where Quw’utsun smun’eem can learn, thrive, and grow within their cultural context, while also adhering to provincial and national educational standards.

Roxanne Harris, executive director of Quw’utsun Syuw’entst Lelum, the education and culture department of Cowichan Tribes, expressed pride in the community’s overwhelming support for the law. “This is a proud day for our First Nation,” Harris stated. “It means we can move into the next phase of our mission to reclaim control over how we educate smun’eem in our schools, focusing holistically on both cultural and social well-being alongside academic outcomes.”

The approval of the Education Law is part of a broader strategy by Cowichan Tribes to regain authority over its governance systems. In recent years, the Nation has successfully ratified several important laws, including the Cowichan Tribes Custom Election Law and the Child and Family Law, which reinforce their ability to self-determine in essential areas affecting Quw’utsun families.

Next Steps for Implementation

Once the law is formally ratified by Cowichan Tribes’ chief and council, the Nation will proceed with its implementation. This process will involve crucial steps such as board recruitment, curriculum development, policy formulation, and establishing partnerships with parents, guardians, educators, and Knowledge Keepers.

Director of Governance Stephanie Atleo highlighted the significance of this law in breaking cycles established by the Indian Act and colonial governments. “Education is the key to healing and empowerment,” Atleo said. “With the adoption of this law, we can ensure our smun’eem learn in ways that honor who they are, where they come from, and the bright future they deserve.”

This historic decision encapsulates the Cowichan Tribes’ commitment to reclaiming their educational authority, emphasizing a future where their traditions and values play a central role in the development of their children.