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Semiahmoo First Nation
"We acknowledge we are on the traditional, unceded territories of the Semiahmoo First Nation and the broader territory of the Coast Salish Peoples."
The City of White Rock recognizes the importance of honouring the heritage and cultures of Indigenous peoples in our community. In White Rock, we are grateful for the relationship between the Semiahmoo First Nation and the City of White Rock.
For information about the Semiahmoo First Nation, visit the Semiahmoo First Nation website.
Grand Chief Bernard Robert Charles Plaza
The City of White Rock, White Rock RCMP Detachment and Semiahmoo First Nation have had a long-standing relationship based on mutual respect. In fact, in 1999, two house posts were raised on East Beach, at Grand Chief Bernard Robert Charles Plaza as a sign of working towards reconciliation, understanding and mutual respect, and a shared responsibility for maintaining relationships. Watch the ceremony video.
The house posts at Grand Chief Bernard Robert Charles Plaza were carved by a group of artists including Semiahmoo carvers, Leonard Wells and Leslie Wells.
Language & Culture
Chief Harley Chappell, of Semiahmoo First Nation, speaks about the significance of National Indigenous People's Day and the importance of language, what happens when it is lost and the efforts to revitalize and reclaim language.
The Story of P'Quals
Chief Harley Chappell of Semiahmoo First Nation shares the Semiahmoo History of P’Quals - the iconic White Rock located on the shores of Semiahmoo Bay.
Semiahmoo First Nation, City of White Rock sign three utility service agreements
The Semiahmoo First Nation and the City of White Rock have announced that they have signed three utility service agreements, two for water supply and one for sewer services.
- Water Supply Agreement—Westerly Lands
- Water Supply Agreement—Community Core Lands
- Sewer Services Agreement
The City and the Nation meet regularly as Councils to discuss matters affecting both governments. As part of their ongoing dialogue, they have steadily moved toward the completion of servicing agreements.
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Semiahmoo First Nation hosting 4th Annual Walk for Truth and Reconciliation
On September 30, the Semiahmoo First Nation invites the community to the 4th Annual Walk for Truth and Reconciliation. Read on... -
Learn the magical Semiahmoo history of the iconic white rock on National Indigenous Peoples Day
Join Semiahmoo Chief Harley Chappell as he shares the oral history of “P’Quals”, the iconic white rock, in celebration of National Indigenous Peoples Day on Wednesday, June 21, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Read on... -
Condolences on the passing of Semiahmoo First Nation Elder, Mabel Charles
The City of White Rock mourns the loss of Mabel Charles, the oldest elder of the Semiahamoo First Nation, who passed away on Tuesday, December 20, 2022 at the age of 94. Read on...
National Indigenous Peoples Day
June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day. This is a day for all Canadians to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. The Canadian Constitution recognizes these three groups as Aboriginal peoples, also known as Indigenous peoples.
Although these groups share many similarities, they each have their own distinct heritage, language, cultural practices and spiritual beliefs.
In co-operation with Indigenous organizations, the Government of Canada chose June 21, the summer solstice, for National Aboriginal Day, now known as National Indigenous Peoples Day. For generations, many Indigenous peoples and communities have celebrated their culture and heritage on or near this day due to the significance of the summer solstice as the longest day of the year.
Learn about National Indigenous Peoples Day and why it was created, and educational resources for children and adults.