A new agreement between the Snuneymuxw First Nation and B.C. Housing aims to develop culturally appropriate housing for Indigenous people.
“Access to basic and equitable housing has, for centuries, been denied to the Snuneymuxw people due to oppressive colonial policies and legislative acts designed to create substandard housing for Indigenous peoples,” said Mike Wyse, chief of the Snuneymuxw First Nation.
B.C. Housing and the Snuneymuxw have signed a memorandum of understanding to create new affordable housing that may include features such as cultural support services and spaces for ceremonies and community gatherings.
They will also explore opportunities for First Naions involvement in construction-related training, develop training programs for First Nations housing professionals, and collaborate on project planning.
The intent to to foster a sense of tradition, well-being and belonging while assisting people, particularly women and children, elders and people experiencing homelessness in the community.
It’s hoped this memorandum will be a model for similar agreements with other First Nations in B.C.
Signing the agreement is a step forward, Wyse said.
