User:Zachary Wang114514/Corbitant

Ḵwiḵwa̱sut'inux̱w Ha̱xwa'mis First Nation
Ḵwiḵwa̱sut'inux̱w Ha̱xwa'mis First Nation is a member if the Musgamagw Tsawataineuk Tribal Council, and is located at Gwa'yas'dums (Gilford Island), an island located bewtween Tribune Channel and Knight Inlet in British Columbia, Canada. The Ḵwiḵwa̱sut'inux̱w have lived in the Bella Coola Valley for thousands of years, and have a rich history and culture that is deeply connected to the land and waters of the region. The Kwikwasut'inuxw and Haxwa'mis are two of the many subgroups of the peoples known as Kwakwaka'wakw, which has two meanings: "smoke of the world" or "beach at the north side of the river." and the community has a long tradition of salmon fishing, hunting, and gathering.

Governance
Like many First Nations in Canada, the Ḵwiḵwa̱sut'inux̱w Ha̱xwa'mis First Nation is working towards greater self-determination and control over their own affairs. In earlier times communities were led by the heads of the wealthiest families, who were known as taises, or chiefs.

In recent years, it is governed by three officials(Chief and Council), who are elected by community members. The Chief and Council work to develop policies and initiatives that promote economic and social development, cultural preservation, and environmental stewardship. They generally meet bi-weekly, unless pressing issues arise and meetings are open to all members of the band.

Culture and Economy
The Ḵwiḵwa̱sut'inux̱w Ha̱xwa'mis First Nation people have a rich culture and language that is an important part of their identity and heritage. The Ḵwiḵwa̱sut'inux̱w Ha̱xwa'mis First Nation language is a distinct language, with its own unique sounds and grammar, and efforts are underway to revitalize and preserve the language through education and cultural programs. It is a tonal language, and words can be spoken in high, middle, low, rising, or falling tones, so sentences sound musical when they are spoken. The Ḵwiḵwa̱sut'inux̱w Ha̱xwa'mis First Nation people also have a rich tradition of art, including carving, weaving, and basketry.

The Ḵwiḵwa̱sut'inux̱w Ha̱xwa'mis First Nation Nation is working to develop a sustainable economy that supports the community and preserves the environment. Traditionally the Kwakiutl were fishers and gatherers. Fishing season began in spring with Chinook salmon and extended until the chum fishing season ended in the fall. In winter the people stayed in their winter villages and did very little food gathering.

Challenges
The Ḵwiḵwa̱sut'inux̱w Ha̱xwa'mis First Nation people have faced a number of challenges over the years. There is no year-round road access to any of the villages of the Kwikwasut’inuxw Haxwa’mis First Nation. Access is only by boat and all consumables and household products must be shipped in.