Richmond, British Columbia, is located on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Musqueam (xʷməθkʷəy̓əm) First Nation.
Musqueam Territory: A Rich History
The Musqueam people have an enduring and profound connection to the lands and waters of the Fraser River estuary, which they have stewarded for thousands of years. Their ancestral territory extends across a vast region that now encompasses many of the Lower Mainland's urban centers. Richmond is a significant part of this historical and ongoing traditional territory, highlighting the continuous relationship between the Musqueam Nation and the land it occupies today.
The Musqueam's deep historical presence means their cultural practices, governance, and way of life have been intrinsically linked to the health and vitality of this region for generations. This enduring connection is a foundational aspect of the land's history.
Cities Within Musqueam Traditional Territory
Musqueam's traditional territory is extensive and includes many areas currently recognized as major cities and significant landmarks in the Metro Vancouver region. Richmond is explicitly identified as one of these areas.
| Modern City/Area | Included in Musqueam Territory |
|---|---|
| Richmond | Yes |
| Vancouver | Yes |
| Burnaby | Yes |
| New Westminster | Yes |
| Delta | Yes |
| North Vancouver | Yes |
| West Vancouver | Yes |
| Surrey | Yes |
| UBC Endowment Lands | Yes |
| YVR Airport | Yes |
| Coquitlam | Yes |
For more detailed information on the Musqueam Nation and their traditional territory, you can visit the official Musqueam website.
