Snuneymuxw First Nation – Nanaimo, BC

Indigenous Governance Administration

The Snuneymuxw First Nation administration office is the central hub for the governance and operations of the Snuneymuxw people, a Coast Salish First Nation located on the eastern coast of Vancouver Island. This office manages the political, social, and economic affairs of the Nation, implementing the directives of the Chief and Council. It serves as the primary point of contact for members seeking access to community programs and for external partners engaging with the Nation on territory and treaty matters.

Community Services and Departments

The administration building houses several key departments dedicated to the well-being of the community:

• Membership: Handling status registration, secure status cards, and maintaining the band list.
• Housing: Managing on-reserve housing applications, maintenance requests, and infrastructure planning.
• Education: Administering funding for post-secondary students and supporting K-12 educational initiatives.
• Lands and Resources: Overseeing land use planning, environmental stewardship, and referrals for development within Snuneymuxw territory.
• Social Development: Providing income assistance and support programs for vulnerable members.

Treaty and Territory

The Snuneymuxw are one of the few nations in British Columbia with a pre-Confederation treaty, the Treaty of 1854. The administration office plays a crucial role in ongoing treaty implementation and rights recognition. It is also the headquarters for the Petroglyph Development Group, the Nation’s economic development arm. Visitors should note that while the office welcomes members and guests, specific appointments are recommended for meetings with department directors or Council members. The office observes a daily closure for lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.