Inchelium stands as the last and only surviving Sn̓ʕay̓čkstx (Sinixt/Arrow Lakes) community globally, a testament to our resilience in the face of colonization in the U.S. and Canada. Despite being declared extinct by the Canadian government in 1956 and facing barriers to return to Canada, the Sn̓ʕay̓čkstx people have fiercely preserved our language and culture from the Colville Reservation in Washington State. This invaluable work commenced in the 1960s when our elders initiated language recordings, collaborating with Anthony Matina. The foresight of these elders and the dedication of Tony Matina have been instrumental in our journey.

 

The n̓caʔlíwm̓ sn̓qǝlxʷcniɫxʷ (Inchelium Language & Culture Association), established in 2011, owes its existence to visionary founders: Shelly Boyd, Wendy Phillips, Melissa Signor, Leah Dick, Jerry Signor, and Trudy Tonasket. Their journey began in a small trailer in Kewa Wa, driven by a profound desire to rekindle our language. Inspiration came from Okanogan elder Samtica (Sara Peterson), motivating them to embark on the revitalization path. Starting humbly, they eventually secured a building within the Inchelium Community on the Colville Reservation. Just three years later, they received a grant from the Administration for Native Americans (ANA) and commenced teaching the first Nselxcin co-hort.

 

While our commitment is firmly rooted in language revitalization, the Inchelium Language & Culture Association extends its efforts to breathe life back into our culture. From captivating Captikwl story nights with elders to the revival of the Upper Columbia River Culture, our dedication is unwavering in reclaiming and sharing our Language & Culture with the world.