4 Senakw The Future of Vancouver

Aug 26, 2021

The Squamish Nation, an indigenous government in Canada, has noticed that traditional single-family housing is not working. This development has caused the housing market in Vancouver to become unaffordable. This is especially damaging for indigenous people who continue to suffer from the effects of colonialism. The Nation has recognized that high density housing would be the best use of the land, produce long-term economic benefits, and achieve the long-term social goals of their community. Councillor Khelsilem states that traditional development schemes have not given any value to the indigenous community. High density urban planning is different. We hope that the Squamish Nation's account will encourage other indigenous nations to look into high density housing. Khelsilem is a Sḵwx̱wú7mesh-Kwakwa̱ka’wa̱kw community leader from the Squamish Nation where he holds the title of spokesperson and councillor. Khelsilem is also a board director with numerous non-profits based in Vancouver, British Columbia. He has spent the past three years influencing policy change within his First Nation, and broadly, policy change ad a Regional, Provincial, and National level. He’s written columns for the Tyee, Vancouver Sun, and National Observer. He is frequently a commentator in the media on major policy issues from an Indigenous perspective. He also speaks at conferences, seminars, and classes on policy, housing, climate, and justice.