With the exterior art finishings for Phase 1 of the Sen̓áḵw development well underway, four words and phrases in the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh sníchim (Squamish language) can now be seen imprinted along the parkade wall, soon to guide drivers as they enter the lot.

The project’s Cultural Advisory Panel, supported by Paháyikwup (Squamish Nation Language Commission), selected these words and phrases carefully last spring. They are an assertion of place and a declaration of Squamish land; a welcome to our village and an expression of respect and gratitude in our Sḵwx̱wú7mesh culture:

1) SEN̓ÁḴW is the name of our village and can be interpreted as “The place inside the head of False Creek.”

2) SḴWX̱WÚ7MESH ÚXWUMIXW means ‘Squamish Nation.’ The word ‘úxwumixw’ is also a Squamish Nation value with various interpretations. It can mean ‘village,’ as in a physical community with inhabitants living in intergenerational multi-family housing, and it can mean ‘people,’ as in the parents, siblings, and children of a particular nation or community.

3) CHET Ḵ’AY̓ÁCHTNNITUMIYAP means “We raise our hands up to you.”

4) I CHÁYAP TL’IḴ NA7 TKWA SEN̓ÁḴW means “You have arrived at Sen̓áḵw.”

As we continue to build this remarkable village together, keep your eyes peeled for new presentations of Sḵwx̱wú7mesh art, language, and culture at Sen̓áḵw.

Celebrating and honouring the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh cultural identity is at the heart of the Sen̓áḵw development. The Cultural Advisory Panel defines the values, structure, and desired outcomes for the infusion of this identity into the village at Sen̓áḵw.

The Panel oversees all matters concerning cultural design, ensuring the integration of cultural sensitivity, diversity, and inclusivity into all aspects of the project, from the interior of the buildings to the landscaping, and more. The panel also ensures the public art selection process is fair and transparent.

For more information, visit the Sen̓áḵw website.