What Guides Us
Toquaht envisions a healthy community where our masčim (citizens) can fulfil their social, spiritual, and economic needs. Guided by our ancestors and rooted in our traditions, we draw strength from our connection to our guiding principles:
- hišukma c̕awaak – Everything is one
- qwaaʔaƛin c̕awaak – How we are one
- ʔuuʔałuk– Taking care of one another
- ʔiisaak – Highest respect
We have an inherent right to self-government, and the signing of the Maa-nulth Treaty was a significant step in reclaiming our autonomy. Previously, under the Indian Act, First Nations were segregated and governed by different laws. The Treaty granted us the freedom to decide our own course of action on our lands, empowering us to shape our future. Prior to contact, Toquaht followed a traditional form of governance led by our ḥaw̓iiḥ (hereditary chiefs). Preserving our hereditary system was important to us, and as we regained self-governance, we maintained this connection to our traditional governance. While we now hold elections to select council members, they work in collaboration with our ḥaw̓ił (chief, noble) and čaamat̓a (second chief). This inclusive governance model ensures that all voices are heard and respected. Learn more about our government here.
"Previously, under the Indian Act, First Nations were segregated and governed by different laws."
The Treaty granted us the freedom to decide our own course of action on our lands, empowering us to shape our future.
wiicackum, taayii ḥaw̓ił (Chief Anne Mack)
The Toquaht vision, mission, and strategic plan guide us as we strive to achieve our goals. Our values are reflected in everything we do, as we aim to build a healthier and more inclusive government. We envision a future where our lands provide for our masčim, fostering self-sufficiency and harmony with our ḥaaḥuułi. We are dedicated to equitable health and well-being for all masčim, regardless of their place of residence.
Active citizen participation is central to our government through the quarterly People’s Assembly, a legislated meeting that provides our citizens with a voice in our Nation’s governance and community activities.
t̓uk̓ʷaaʔatḥ also have access to various community services, including health, education, family support, and the distribution of traditional foods. We undertake thoughtful infrastructure and economic development projects throughout our ḥaḥuułi, all with the goal of safeguarding our resources for future generations.