In the 1860s, our two distinct nations came together in Klemtu: the Kitasoo Nation of the islands and the Xai’xais Nation of the mainland. In addition to coming from different geographies, the Kitasoo and the Xai’xais didn’t speak the same language prior to the introduction of English. The Kitasoo are the southernmost group of the Tsimshianic language family and speak Sgüüxs (a southern dialect). The Xai’xais are part of the Wakashan language family and speak Xai’xais.
Today, our community resides in Klemtu, on the east side of Swindle Island on BC’s central coast (about 500km north of Vancouver), in the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest. We have 517 band members, 319 of whom live on reserve. Our village is served by two grocery stores, a post office, cafe, community sports facility, bighouse, and a health clinic.
image credit: Owen Perry
We have always had a plan for the lands and oceans and the creatures they harbour. It lives in our heritage, in our oral history and in our everyday decisions as to where we collect our food, and where we fish and harvest our trees. Since the modern world doesn’t understand our way of managing our lands and resources, we will write it down in order to explain our intentions.
Our vision for our land, sea, and resources is based on the best definition of the terms sustainable. To us this means the wealth of the forests, fish, wildlife and the complexity of all life will be here forever. It also means that we will be here forever. To remain here as the Kitasoo and Xai’xais people we need to protect, manage and enhance the resources and our culture in order to ultimately protect our heritage. We also need to live in the modern world and have jobs to sustain our families and community.
No one speaks for us. Mutual respect and understanding comes from meeting with us and gaining an understanding of our people and our lands. Listen, learn, and understand, then we can work together.
image credit: Moonfish Media
Dedicated to protecting and preserving the lands, culture, and heritage of the Kitasoo Xaixais people.
Explore programs, services, and learn about the governing body of the Kitasoo Xai’xais Nation.
The Kitasoo Development Corporation runs various companies to provide jobs and revenue that help sustain our community.
On June 22nd, 2022, the Kitasoo Xai’xais Nation publicly declared Gitdisdzu Lugyeks, commonly known as Kitasu Bay, a Marine Protected Area (MPA).
image credit: Moonfish Media
Located in the heart of The Great Bear Rainforest, Spirit Bear Lodge offers access to transformative wilderness and authentic cultural experiences that create emotional connections between people, nature and wildlife.
Stay up to date on community events, announcements, and news.
Spirit Bear is an Official Mark of the Kitasoo Band.
Copyright © 2023 KITASOO XAI’XAIS Nation Council
Website by: Owen Perry
