Coqualeetza Cultural Ed Centre

Coqualeetza Cultural Education Centre

Service options: On-site services

In 1969, the concept of a Provincial Cultural Education Centre was initiated at the founding meeting of the Union of BC. Indian Chiefs in Kamloops, BC. The mandate for developing and maintaining the Cultural Centre was given to the UBCIC as a Land Claim strategy. The UBCIC relocated to Vancouver for better accessibility and the cultural education initative was transferred to the East Fraser District Council. In 1972, the local twenty four Stó:lō Chiefs were mandated to operate a Cultural Centre. They appointed the initial Board of Directors to become a registered non-profit agency and to implement a Cultural Centre for the benefit of the Stó:lō people as well as First Nation peoples in general.  The Coqualeetza Cultural Education Centre was incorporated in 1973 as a non-profit charitable organization and operated its programs and services on the Coqualeetza properties in Chilliwack, BC.
The operations philosophy of the Coqualeetza Cultural Education Centre is that the centre belongs to the Stó:lō people but welcomes all First Nation peoples, students and educators. The people we serve identify culturally relevant programs and services. Programs and services enhance self-esteem and pride while fostering effective social adjustment through the traditional way of teaching and learning from each other. Program development undergoes extensive verification processes in keeping with respect, honour, accuracy and integrity. Our reality, our truths, our values and our lifestyle are embodied in our notion of place, our love of the land, and our link to all creation.
The service worldview is founded in the Halq’eméylem language. It encompasses a holistic perspective based on family, customs, traditions, spirituality, socialization (teaching, learning behaviour), knowledge of history, arts, laws, and governance.
Our main strengths are the active participation and guidance of Elders and the flexibility in responding to community needs and the belief that societal problems must be resolved from within - individuals and communities have the answers!