hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ and Indigenous Languages at KPU

hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ is the language spoken by people of the Kwantlen, Katzie, Tsawwassen, Kwikwetlem, and Musqueam First Nations on whose traditional territories our university is built. hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ is also known as a Down River dialect of Halkomelem, under the Salishan language category.

At Kwantlen Polytechnic University, we are committed to advancing Reconciliation and weaving Indigenous knowledge, values, and representation into our organization. Part of our responsibility for systemic transformation includes honoring Indigenous languages at KPU. In our not-too-distant history, Indigenous languages were once illegal to speak, record, and share within Canada. Colonialism has had and continues to have a devastating effect on the survival of Indigenous languages across North America. We believe it is our role and responsibility to listen and learn Indigenous languages and follow revitalization work led by Indigenous Language Keepers. We raise our hands in gratitude to Sesmelot (Fern Gabriel), hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ Language Instructor and Consultant from Kwantlen First Nation.