Haíɫzaqv & Haíɫzaqvḷa
Haíɫzaqv is the correct spelling of Heiltsuk. Heiltsuk is an anglicized version of our nations name and for the duration of this framework we we refer to the Haíɫzaqv as such. Haíɫzaqv means to act and speak correctly as a human being.
Mission
To restore the natural transmission of Haíɫzaqvḷa by increasing speaking, understanding, reading and writing of Haíɫzaqvḷa by all Haíɫzaqv. To support a high level of community engagement in the revitalization of Haíɫzaqvḷa. To follow a holistic language model that meets the needs of all learners, grounded in Haíɫzaqv values, culture, and worldview.
Vision
Haíɫzaqvḷa thriving for all Haíɫzaqv
Values
Respect: We place value on our language, our people, and homelands
Reciprocity: We need each other to be successful
Resilience: We are strong, innovative and adaptable
Haíɫzaqvḷa Dictonary
The language of the Haíɫzaqv (Heiltsuk) is Haíɫzaqvḷa, a living language that expresses our worldview and way of life. Our language connects us to the wisdom and knowledge of our ancestors and infuses our people with valuable insights and understanding. Háiɫzaqvḷa translates into English as “the language of the Háiɫzaqv.”
Haíɫzaqvḷa Revitalization Programs
The Haíɫzaqv INLG language immersion program is a 2-year program that is vetted through Simon Fraser University (S.F.U.) The first year is comprised of 9 courses and those who graduate receive a First Nation’s Language teaching certificate from SFU. The second year is comprised of 10 courses and those who graduate will receive a First Nation’s Language Diploma from SFU. Each course in year one and year two, is worth 3 units / credits through SFU.
H̓aíx’us Buíxvs Ǧṇṃ́ is a Prenatal Project that creates opportunities for families to learn with their x̌vṇúkv’u, beloved baby while still in the womb.
Currently, the H̓aíx’us Buíxvs Ǧṇṃ́ – Beautiful Pregnant Woman has three (3) expecting families, using belly buds; with at least one of the parents of haíɫzaqv decent, participating and introducing haíɫzaqvḷa to the baby in the womb.
The Youth Mentorship will develop and deliver a relationship-based mentoring 4-week pilot project involving Haíɫzaqv youth and local expertise. Informed by our own local historians and cultural leaders, this excellent opportunity will foster ancestorial wisdom, knowledge and history as they transition into adulthood.