Snuneymuxw First Nation, B.C. Housing, City of Nanaimo and Nanaimo Ladysmith school district are partnering to develop three properties in the Harewood area of Nanaimo.
The Te’tuxwtun project was announced in December 2018 and according to a press release today, Dec. 3, its priorities include new affordable rental housing, relocation of the district learning alternatives program, integrating culture, parks and recreational services and incorporation of health services and child care.
Snuneymuxw First Nation will guide the growth and development of the properties, the press release said, as well as bring a wealth of cultural knowledge. Snuneymuxw Chief Michael Wyse said the journey of healing and growth is years in the making.
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“The Te’tuxwtun project is but another unique partnership in which we honour the land of our ancestors as well as future generations of all peoples here in Nanaimo. Hay tseep qa to our partners at all levels of government for their work on this truly exceptional journey,” Wyse said in the press release.
Nanaimo Mayor Leonard Krog said the partnership reflects the city’s priority to renew and strengthen relations with Snuneymuxw and similarly, Charlene McKay, school board chairperson, said it reflects the district’s goal of reconciliation.
“The school district is honoured to have embarked on this unprecedented journey for our community in a project to benefit future generations,” McKay said in the press release. “Truth and reconciliation is a meaningful goal in the district and it is what guides and influences our actions as we walk together in learning and in extraordinary partnerships such as the Te’tuxwtun project.”
Public information sessions for the project will be forthcoming, offering people a chance to provide feedback during the development process.
More information is available at www.bchousing.org/nanaimo-tetuxwtun.