Eslhílhkw'iws Chet Census Key Takeaways

Members feel proud to be Sḵwx̱wú7mesh

and most feel a sense of belonging with Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw. Almost all Members think Skwxwú7mesh sníchim is worth saving and that knowing and learning about Skwxwú7mesh culture is important– especially for youth (ages 0-18). Members also value the land and its relationship to Sḵwx̱wú7mesh culture and spirituality. Members want to spend more time on the land for these purposes and think youth especially should have opportunities to learn, harvest, and participate in cultural and spiritual practices.

Across many dimensions, Members are doing well.

Most Members between the ages of 19 and 65 are employed, and those who want to and can work, have work. Across all age groups, 48% of Members are employed while only 5% of Members are unemployed and looking for work. More than 40% of Members have completed some form of post-secondary or trades training, and most felt that support from the Nation has contributed to their educational success. Further, Members’ feelings about their health and wellness are positive. Generally, Members feel their health is getting better, and they are prioritizing exercise and eating nutritious meals.

Post-secondary Education & Trades Training for Members

Housing is a top priority for Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Members.

Around half of Members are satisfied with their homes, though people who are younger are generally less satisfied with their homes than those over the age of 54. Most Members currently living off Sḵwx̱wú7mesh lands, especially younger Members, want to move home, and most people currently living on Sḵwx̱wú7mesh lands want to stay.

Today, most Members feel culturally safe

and have a sense of dignity and belonging in most places they go. Still, it is common for respondents to experience stereotyping and many Members report a negative impact of racism on their well-being. Child welfare, justice, and police services are the least culturally safe services outside of the community – and are top priorities for change.

Lowest Rated Places for Cultural Safety

Members feel positively connected with Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw.

Overall, Members rate their relationship with the Nation positively and have generally positive views about the Nation’s administration. Most Members feel they are treated with respect, dignity, and kindness when accessing Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw services, and that they can ask for what they need and want. Looking forward, Members would value more help with and investment in housing and health services at a Nation and household level, and would like to see more celebration of culture, history, and accomplishments.