The Xwéwenaqw Xwexwilmexw Cultural Reclamation Society is committed to reconnecting the Whonnock people with their ancestral lands and maintaining our cultural heritage.
Our Mission
We strive to:
- Preserve and revitalize Whonnock teachings, languages, and cultural practices
- Bridge traditional knowledge with contemporary learning opportunities
- Empower youth to honor their heritage and build a resilient future
- Share our cultural knowledge with other communities
- Foster inter-community connections to sustain these traditions for generations
Our Vision
We envision thriving Whonnock traditions, where youth walk confidently in both traditional wisdom and modern skills, fostering unity and Indigenous cultural strength.
Our Governance
Honoring the Strength of Women in Indigenous Leadership
For countless generations, Indigenous societies across Turtle Island (North America) have thrived under systems of governance that honor balance, reciprocity, and interconnectedness. Central to many of these systems is matriarch governance, where women—our mothers, grandmothers, and aunties—hold leadership roles that guide families, communities, and nations. This model of governance is deeply rooted in respect for women as life-givers, knowledge keepers, and stewards of culture and land.
Understanding Matriarch Governance
Matriarch governance represents a leadership system where women play a central role in decision-making and community life. This approach stands in contrast to colonial systems of governance that prioritize hierarchy and individual power. Instead, matriarchal governance emphasizes:
- Cooperation over competition
- Inclusive decision-making
- Collective well-being
- Sustainable relationships with the land
- Inter-generational responsibility
- Balance and harmony
While men carry out essential roles as warriors, protectors, and hunters, the matriarchs serve as the heart of the community. They maintain oversight of the delicate relationships between the people, the land, and future generations, ensuring all decisions reflect long-term sustainability and communal harmony.