On September 10, Tlowitsis Nation hosted a small open house in their new community, Nenagwas, which translates from Kwak̓wala to “a place to come home to.”

The open house welcomed community members, along with guests from the federal and provincial governments, contractors, sector partners, and local non-profits that played a part in the development of Nenagwas.

In 2018, Tlowitsis Nation used forestry revenue to purchase a 635-acre property in the Strathcona Regional District, off Highway 19A just south of Campbell River. Over the past several years, the Nation has developed roads, infrastructure, and other amenities, with the first 15 homes nearing completion this fall. The Nation’s vision for the community – which is roughly the total area of downtown Campbell River – includes housing, a health centre, mini-mall businesses, an administrative building, a day school, a Big House, carving studio, and a recreation and sports area.

Nenagwas means a new beginning for our people.

Once Phase 1 is complete, the new community will host 75 to 100 new homes, eventually 180 lots altogether by end of Phase 3, providing economic development and employment opportunities, housing security, and a place to call home.

Through the planning phase, the Nation engaged Tlowitsis citizens through community surveys and meetings, ensuring the vision for Nenagwas reflects community needs and desires.

Nenagwas is being developed as Tlowitsis Nation works through negotiations to finalize their Treaty (Stage 5 out of 6 in the Treaty process) with British Columbia and Canada.

“For us, Nenagwas means a new beginning for our people,” says Councillor Thomas Smith, project lead. “After centuries of loss, oppression, and a systematic attack on our basic human rights, the Treaty will give us the opportunity to come together as a people once again – governing ourselves, making decisions about our land, people, and culture as a community and as a nation.”

Since the 1960s, colonial displacement has forced multiple generations of Tlowitsis citizens from their traditional territories and, for over 50 years, they have been searching for a new place to call home. Nenagwas is the culmination of the many steps Tlowitsis Nation have taken towards self-governance, cultural revitalization, and economic sovereignty.

At the open house, guests gathered to hear remarks from Chief John Smith, Councillor Thomas Smith, and Dallas Smith. Surrounded by trees and blue skies, the event was a chance for supporters to see the development progress in action.

The event was opened with a blessing of two canoes at the entrance of the new community, followed by tours of the area, a visit inside one of the near-completed homes, and a BBQ lunch.

Coast Funds CEO, Eddy Adra, was one of many welcomed guests at the opening.

“Today has been a special day, seeing Tlowitsis Nation realize their vision for a new home for their members,” said Eddy. “Nenagwas is a reflection of the Tlowitsis’ thoughtful and careful planning in establishing their new village. Creating a new community is a huge feat, and I am honoured to witness the beginnings of Nenagwas.”

Work on Nenagwas is expected to continue through several phases into 2050, with more housing, a carving studio, the health centre, administrative buildings, and Big House to be completed in 2026.

Tlowitsis Nation will host a larger celebration for members and guests in 2026 when more homes and other facilities are completed.