The topic of Saanich people is one that has generated great interest in modern society. With a rich and complex history, Saanich people has played a crucial role in the lives of people around the world. From its impact on popular culture to its influence on politics and economics, Saanich people continues to be a topic of discussion and debate. In this article, we will explore the highlights of Saanich people, from its origins to its relevance today. In addition, we will analyze the different perspectives and opinions that exist about Saanich people, with the aim of providing a comprehensive view on this important topic.
![]() | This article includes a list of general references, but it lacks sufficient corresponding inline citations. (November 2017) |
![]() Elsie Copper and her brother, who is wearing traditional Saanich dance regalia. George Gustav Heye, right. 1938 photo, NMAI. | |
Regions with significant populations | |
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Languages | |
English, Saanich | |
Religion | |
Christianity, Animism | |
Related ethnic groups | |
Coast Salish |
People | W̱SÁNEĆ |
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Language | SENĆOŦEN |
Country | ÁLEṈENEȻ (TŦE W̱SÁNEĆ)[1][2][3] |
The Saanich or W̱sáneć (Saanich: W̱SÁNEĆ, [xʷˈsenət͡ʃ], Xwsenəč) are indigenous nations from the north coast of the Gulf and San Juan Islands, southern Vancouver Island and the southern edge of the Lower Mainland in British Columbia.
The W̱SÁNEĆ (weh-saanich) peoples are represented by the Tsartlip (Sart-Lip), Pauquachin (Paw-Qua-Chin), Tsawout (Say-Out), Tseycum (Sigh-Come) and Malahat (Mal-a-hat) Nations.[4] The W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council Society consists of three of theses Nations: Tsartlip, Tseycum and Tsawout.[5] These W̱SÁNEĆ First Nations remain on their ancestral lands.
On May 7, 2018, the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council was created as a representation of the W̱SÁNEĆ First Nations to the Government. The creation of this council not only brought three Indigenous groups together, but it also established a legal governing body. With this council, came many proposals and projects to benefit the W̱SÁNEĆ First Nations.
Includes:[5]
The W̱SÁNEĆ language or Saanich dialect is called SENĆOŦEN.[7] This dialect was revitalized by the late John Elliot, an important member of the W̱SÁNEĆ community and peoples.
Four of the Saanich First Nations, Tsartlip, Pauquachin, Tseycum and Tsawout, created the ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱ Tribal School in 1989. It holds classes from preschool to grade 10, with classes for adults in the adult centre next door to the high school where SENĆOŦEN, the W̱SÁNEĆ language, and W̱SÁNEĆ culture are taught along with the provincial curriculum. The school is also a venue for community events.[8]
ÁLEṈENEȻ means "homeland" in the SENĆOŦEN language.