News release
For immediate release
Esquimalt, B.C.—The Xʷsepsəm Nation and the Township of Esquimalt have signed a relationship agreement that formalizes and strengthens their longstanding relationship. The agreement reflects a shared commitment to respect, collaboration, and reconciliation, and establishes a framework for working together on matters of mutual interest. It represents an important milestone in the ongoing relationship between the Nation and the Township and supports a more coordinated approach to addressing shared priorities and opportunities.
Through the agreement, the Nation and township will engage in regular dialogue, strengthen communication on matters of mutual interest, and work together on initiatives that benefit both communities.
The framework includes regular meetings between the township's mayor and council and Xʷsepsəm Nation's Chief and Council to discuss shared priorities, emerging issues, and opportunities for partnership. Staff from both governments will also continue to meet regularly to coordinate projects, share information, and identify opportunities for collaboration.
"Today is a historic step forward in the relationship between Xʷsepsəm Nation and the Township of Esquimalt," said Chief Jerome Thomas. "This agreement recognizes our shared commitment to working together in a meaningful way and demonstrates how strong relationships can support reconciliation, mutual understanding, and lasting benefits for our communities. We look forward to continuing this work together in the years ahead."
“This is another important milestone for our community,” said outgoing Esquimalt Mayor Barbara Desjardins. “This agreement between the Xʷsépsəm Nation and the Township of Esquimalt encourages further and future collaboration between our communities for greater cultural and economic benefits. We are grateful to Chief Thomas and the Xʷsépsəm Nation for the work that they have done to help us get to this place.”
The agreement identifies several areas of mutual interest that are expected to remain key priorities for ongoing dialogue and collaboration, including archaeological and heritage conservation, planning and development, placemaking, economic development, healthy communities, and public safety. Through these areas of focus, the agreement supports cooperative and mutually beneficial approaches to service delivery, community planning, and projects that affect both communities.
The Nation and township have worked together on numerous initiatives over the years, demonstrating the value of partnership and collaboration in addressing regional opportunities. Recent collaboration has included advancing a shared vision for the future of the Island Rail Corridor through the Reconciliation Corridor Initiative and working with Public Services and Procurement Canada and the Department of National Defence to support placemaking initiatives that reflect lək̓ʷəŋən history and culture throughout Esquimalt Harbour and the township. This agreement builds on that work and provides a framework for continued collaboration in the years ahead.
The October 14 signing ceremony was commemorated with the gift of two Garry oak trees. One tree will be planted at Esquimalt Gorge Park and the other at Xʷsepsəm Nation. Accompanied by matching plaques, the trees will serve as a lasting symbol of the growing relationship between the Nation and the township and the shared commitment to future generations.
Learn more
- Esquimalt Nation: esquimaltnation.ca
- Township of Esquimalt: Esquimalt.ca
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MEDIA CONTACTS
Andrea Thomas
Executive Director
andrea@esquimaltnation.ca
250-381-7861
Tara Zajac
Manager of Communications
tara.zajac@esquimalt.ca
250-414-7122
