Thank you for your interest in the Kwikwetlem First Nation Guardian Program! Please find more information about the program in this frequently asked question (FAQ) section below.
Q: What is the Kwikwetlem First Nation Guardian Program?
A: The Kwikwetlem First Nation (kʷikʷəƛ̓əm) Guardian Program is the Nation’s territorial stewardship authority. Guardians serve as monitors, knowledge holders, environmental observers, and cultural protectors across various development activities within our traditional territory.
Guardians ensure projects are carried out respectfully, safely, and in alignment with Indigenous rights and values. We advocate for all our relations, wildlife and, especially, future generations.
Q: What kind of work do Kwikwetlem Guardians do?
A: Kwikwetlem First Nation Guardians do a lot of different work, including monitoring construction sites, digging up ancient artifacts, bird nest sweeps, wildlife surveys, Coquitlam River water quality and fish studies.
Q: Are there other kinds of Guardians across Canada?
A: Yes! There are more than 240 First Nations, Inuit and Métis Guardian programs across Canada, according to the federal government. The program has created thousands of meaningful jobs. In fact, on average, for every $1 invested into a guardian program, the Nation benefits “at least 10 times that amount,” according to a report by the Coastal Steward Network and TNC Canada.
Additionally, the Haida Gwaii Watchmen Program is one Guardian-based initiative that has had success in Haida Gwaii for decades. The Watchmen, supported financially from Parks Canada, are managed by the Haida Nation Council and track tourism going into Gwaii Haanas. That includes reviewing tourism data, managing sites and ensuring that Haida laws are being followed within protected areas, according to their official webpage.
Q: Who can become a Kwikwetlem Guardian?
A: Kwikwetlem prioritizes members as Guardians. Training will be provided to members if needed. Age requirement is 19+. Valid driver's license required.
Non-members can also be Guardians if they have other valid qualifications: environmental guardians require formal education like a degree in biology (or related field) and archaeology guardians also require education in archaeology or related field.
Q: Why would I want to become a Guardian?
A: There are many benefits to becoming a Guardian, including working in nature and getting “on-the-land” experience. You can see some potential benefits below.
Skills, knowledge and employment pathways: Guardian programs can help anyone get experience and confidence to pursue similar careers. By learning practical, academic, and stewardship skills in this kind of program, participants gain transferrable skills while getting paid to serve as a Guardian.
For members, mental wellness benefits and a sense of belonging: “On the land” experiences like those in a Guardian program can promote pride and a sense of belonging. Shared experiences—be it through harvesting, camps or stewardship activities—can also create connections to peers and knowledge keepers in the community.
For urban youth, specifically, land-based activities may create a “multiple hands on deck” frame that deepen connections with Elders and supportive adults—key determinants of Indigenous health.
Additionally, land based and outdoor programs for Indigenous youth are repeatedly associated with improved self esteem, reduced distress, positive mood, and strengthened coping capabilities. That may be a direct result of time spent on the land, and Elders’ teachings that frame land as a healer.
Q: How can I become a Guardian?
A: If interested, please contact Kat Delaney at kat.delaney@kwikwetlem.com.
Q: How can I request a Guardian for my project?
A: Residents, private and public companies can reach out to fieldwork@kwikwetlem.com or referrals@kwiwketlem.com to request a Guardian.
Q: When was the Kwikwetlem Guardian Program founded? And how many sites do Guardians typically visit?
A: The Kwikwetlem Guardian Program was founded in 2022. But Kwikwetlem members have been working as Guardians in various forms for many years. The program currently receives so many requests for archaeological guardians that we cannot keep up with the demand. We also have eight long-term construction projects that we regularly visit for environmental monitoring, with four new ones on the way.