OUR PURPOSE: HONOURING, SHAPING AND INSPIRING OUR PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE
We value the histories, cultures and contributions of all who came before us. Together, we support every learner's journey by building connected, caring communities. We empower curious, courageous and compassionate learners who have the knowledge and skills to contribute to a changing world.
We're committed to Reconciliation, lifelong learning, and shared responsibility for the future.
Tómiyeqw
The Coast Salish philisophy behind Tómiyeqw guides people to think deeply about any action, or interaction they take. Tómiyeqw expresses the responsibility and connection Stó:lō people have to the seven generations past and future. Tómiyeqw is a Halq'eméylem term that literally means both great-great-great-great grandparent/aunt/uncle and great-great-great-great grandchild/niece/nephew. Tómiyeqw reminds us to think beyond our own lifetimes and act with care for future generations.
Learn more about our commitments to Truth and Reconciliation in our 2025 - 2029 Strategic Plan.
Resources
- SD 33 Indigenous Education Department
- Tselxeyeqw Ancestral Home Territorial Map
- Language Learning:
- Indigenous Cultural Safety and Humility Guide
- Student Voice and Agency Video
- BC Teachers Federation
- First Nations Education Steering Committee
- Child Friendly Calls to Action
- September 30: Orange Shirt Day
- September 30: National Day of Truth and Reconciliation
Our Journey Logo
From the Artist:
The image is of an Elder wearing an orange shirt, looking at their story in a book. Indigenous people live with oral teachings, which is how our knowledge and history are passed down through the generations. Even with these teachings, our Elders understand the significance of putting this hard history into books and curriculum, with the hope that all people can build a broader understanding so that this time is not forgotten. Many of our Elders are leaving this world with their stories. We see the importance of recording these stories so they can be used to build understanding and teach this part of Canada’s history. Reconciliation is a difficult bridge to build; starting at the school level gives strong building blocks.
Artist: Sxwoxil
Jason Roberts, whose traditional name is Sxwoxil, is a Stó:lō artist and is a member of Tzeachten First Nation. Jason resides at Soowahlie First Nation.
From the District:
This logo was commissioned in 2023 to represent the Chilliwack School Districts commitment to Truth and Reconciliation. It was worn by every staff member in our district on October 6, 2023 as we explored hard truths together and deepened our learning to help us on our individual and collective journey toward Truth and Reconciliation.
The blank page in this logo holds great significance in our journey, symbolizing the ongoing effort towards Truth and Reconciliation within our community. Collectively we embark on the next chapter of our journey, inscribing the blank pages.
The Song
Stó:lō Shxwelí Wiyótha : Spirit of the Stó:lō Forever
Stó:lō Shxwelí Wiyótha was written by T'ít'elem Spath (Eddie Gardner) and translated by Yomalot (Rosaleen George); Ts'ats'elexwót (Elizabeth Herrling); Tseloyóthelwet (Shirley Norris) and Xwiyolemót (Tellie Gutteriez).