Membership Code

Our Membership Code lays out the rules and ways for becoming a Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Member based on our laws and traditions. Originally developed in 1987, it was updated in 2000 and 2013.

Under our current Code, status under the Indian Act is a requirement to apply for Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Membership. The federal government has since made changes to status eligibility through Bill S-3 to remove sex-based discrimination in status registration rules.

Members have raised concerns that the current Membership Code leaves out some of our grandchildren and children. Bill S-3 provides an opportunity to engage our Members on what changes they would like to see and update our Code.

The project is led by Ts’ixwts’ixwnítway (Member Services), with close support from the Membership Committee and the Membership Appeals Committee, and guidance from Nexwsxwníw̓ntm ta Úxwumixw (Council).

Do you have questions about this project? Phone 604-982-7610 or email membership@squamish.net.

Eslhék’ chat!

Project Name: Eslhék’ chat! (We are close family!)

The artwork created by Alan Williams depicts an eagle longhouse in honour of our traditional cultural teachings passed down through generations. The longhouse surrounds three heads, representing our community caring for the three generations of family: Elders, parents, and youth.

Our Membership Code process emphasizes Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Members’ choice to define our Membership in ways that are inclusive and true to our Sḵwx̱wú7mesh ways. Our project name represents our community’s close relationship, showing we will surround the generations of Sḵwx̱wú7mesh people and come together as the united family our ancestors fought to get here.

“We need to pull together because people are still falling through the cracks.” – Engagement Session Participant

Upcoming Events

Come learn about possible changes to our Membership Code and enjoy a meal. Transportation and childcare are not being provided at these sessions, however if you require assistance to attend please email membership@squamish.net or phone 604-982-7610.

Squamish Valley 
September 16, 2024 | 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm | Totem Hall

North Vancouver 
September 17, 2024 | 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm | Chief Joe Mathias Centre

Online 
Date coming soon

What is Bill S-3?

Bill S-3 is the most recent amendment to the Indian Act, which came into force in 2017 and 2019. The changes extend status entitlement to descendants of women affected by sex-based discrimination dating back to 1869.

You may be eligible for status if:

Your mother, grandmother, or great-grandmother:

  • Lost status due to marriage before 1985
  • Was born outside of marriage to a Status father and non-Status mother between 1951 and 1985

Your parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent:

  • Lost status because of their mother’s marriage before 1985
  • Had their name removed from the Indian Register because of their non-Status father

If you think you might be eligible for status as a result of Bill S-3, contact Ts’ixwts’ixwnítway (Member Services) for a Status Application at membership@squamish.net or 604-982-7610.