Kitasoo/Xai’xais

In the 1860s, two distinct nations came together in Klemtu: the Kitasoo Nation of the islands and the Xai’xais Nation of the mainland. In addition to coming from different geographies, the Kitasoo and the Xai’xais didn’t speak the same language prior to the introduction of English.

The Kitasoo are the southernmost group of the Tsimshianic language family and speak Sgüüxs (a southern dialect). The Xai’xais are part of the Wakashan language family and speak Xai’xais.The Kitasoo speak Sgüüxs (a southern dialect). The Xai’xais are part of the Wakashan language family & speak Xai’xais.

Today, our community resides in Klemtu, on the east side of Swindle Island on BC’s central coast (about 500km north of Vancouver), in the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest.

The economy is based mainly on resources, particularly eco-tourism through the Spirit Bear Lodge, fish farms, hatcheries and processing, and timber harvesting.The Kitasoo/Xai’xais have assumed much responsibility for planning, managing and protecting Kitasoo/Xai’xais lands, waters and resources.

For more information, visit the website: klemtu.com

Contact Information
Kitasoo Xai’xai Nation Band Office
Email – [email protected]
PO Box 87, Klemtu, V0T 1L0