Haisla

The Haisla are Indigenous people of the Northwest Coast of British Columbia, Canada. Their traditional territory centers on Kitamaat Village near Kitimat, along the Douglas Channel and Kitimat River, with coastal inlets and islands extending into the surrounding coast.

The Haisla language is a Northern Wakashan language related to Kwak’wala and other Wakashan languages. It has historically had multiple dialects and remains endangered, though revitalization efforts are underway through language classes, immersion programs, and documentation by the Haisla Nation and researchers.

Traditionally, the Haisla depended on salmon fishing, shellfish gathering, coastal hunting, cedar logging, and trade with neighboring peoples. They constructed cedar-plank houses and carved totem poles, and practiced potlatch ceremonies as part of Northwest Coast culture. Social organization is represented today by the Haisla Nation government.

Today, the Haisla Nation operates as a self-governing First Nation with a band council based in Kitamaat Village. The community participates in regional land and resource management and economic development around Kitimat, while continuing cultural, language, and education initiatives.