Quw’utsun Tribes Approve New Education Law with 89% Support

Members of the Quw’utsun Mustimuhw (Cowichan Tribes) have overwhelmingly approved a new Education Law, known as Squw’utsun’a’lh Sniw’ ‘u tu Stutul’na’mut, with an impressive 89 percent of voters in favor. The vote took place on October 9, 2023, with 307 ballots cast. Of these, 274 citizens voted yes, while 33 citizens opposed the measure. This historic decision is seen as a significant step towards enhancing educational delivery for Quw’utsun smun’eem (children) and establishing a system grounded in Quw’utsun teachings and values.

The vote included both in-person and online options, with online voting available from September 22 to October 9. In a statement released by Cowichan Tribes, Chief Cindy Daniels emphasized the importance of this vote as a move away from the trauma inflicted by colonial education systems. “Our citizens first voted to take back our jurisdiction over education in 2022 and now, with this vote in favor of our own education law, we are another step closer to self-governance,” she stated. Daniels, a survivor of the residential school system, highlighted that the new law’s integration of cultural teachings, including the Hul’q’umi’num’ language, will be transformative for future generations.

Framework for a Culturally Grounded Education System

The Education Law is built upon the Squw’utsun’a’lh Syuw’entst ‘i’ Snuw’uy’ulh, which represents traditional Quw’utsun teachings. This framework aims to create a culturally relevant education system where Quw’utsun smun’eem can flourish while also meeting provincial and national educational standards.

Roxanne Harris, the executive director of Quw’utsun Syuw’entst Lelum, the education and culture department of Cowichan Tribes, expressed pride in the community’s support for the law. “Community support for this law means we can start the next phase of our work to reclaim control over how we educate smun’eem in Cowichan Tribes’ schools. Our focus will not only be on academic outcomes but also on promoting positive cultural and social well-being for generations to come,” she noted.

The approval of this Education Law fits into a broader strategy of the Cowichan Tribes to regain authority over its governance systems. In recent years, the Nation has successfully ratified laws such as the Cowichan Tribes Custom Election Law and the Child and Family Law, which affirm their capacity for self-determination in essential areas impacting Quw’utsun families.

Next Steps Toward Implementation

Following the ratification, Cowichan Tribes’ chief and council will proceed with implementing the new Education Law. This phase includes essential tasks such as board recruitment, curriculum development, policy creation, and forming partnerships with parents, guardians, educators, and Knowledge Keepers.

Director of Governance Stephanie Atleo highlighted the significance of this law as a means to dismantle the cycles perpetuated by the Indian Act and colonial governance. “We know education is the key to healing and empowerment,” Atleo stated. “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.”

As the Cowichan Tribes move forward with this initiative, the focus remains on fostering a learning environment that is not only academically robust but also deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the Quw’utsun people. This pivotal moment marks a renewed commitment to education that resonates with the community’s values and strengthens their identity for years to come.