Ta na wa Téy̓wilhay̓lhem
Public Safety

Sḵwx̱wú7mesh communities need to be places where we all feel safe and like we belong. In spring 2022, Nexwsxwníw̓ntm ta Úxwumixw (Council) created a Public Safety Task Force (PSTF). The PSTF was tasked with providing recommendations on how to improve public safety, with a strong emphasis on the importance of prevention and community healing.

We are pleased to share that we now have a framework and a plan to keep moving forward on this important work – one that is uniquely Sḵwx̱wú7mesh and rooted in our values, principles, and cultural practices which emphasize the importance of:

• Behaviour on the land and in the waters
• Being protected at home
• Being protected in the community/villages
• Being protected on the land

To achieve, 11 recommendations were developed. They are community-led, rooted in prevention, supportive of mental health, wellness and housing, and aim to meet Members where they are at.

• Establish a Community Justice System.
• Increase capacity to enforce laws, bylaws, policies, and values.
• Address disparities and ensure equitable protection.
• Take immediate action to address toxic drug crisis.
• Require an anti-racism and cultural safety course for external agencies and partners.
• Develop a plan for safe transportation options that meet community members’ needs.
• Design housing, infrastructure, and services for community safety from the start.
• Address family violence and Elder abuse.
• Create a trauma-informed Community Safety Team Program.
• Build housing as fast as possible.
• Outreach to those most at risk.

Over the coming months, we will be releasing more in-depth information on each of the recommendations, the ways in which they will be achieved, and how Nation Members can get involved.