About
Our History & Heritage
Welcome to Gitwinksihlkw, a vibrant Nisga’a village nestled in the heart of the Nass Valley in northwestern British Columbia. For countless generations, the Nisga’a people have called this land home, forging a profound connection with the natural world and building a strong, enduring culture.
Our story is one of remarkable resilience and strength. Gitwinksihlkw, meaning "Place of the Lizards," has faced both profound hardship and triumph. We honor the memory of the 1700s volcanic lava flows that buried our ancestral community, alongside the fires that once consumed our village. From these immense challenges, our ancestors emerged with an unwavering spirit and a commitment to self-reliance. That same ingenuity is reflected in our landmarks today—from being the only Nisga’a village to host a Salvation Army Church since 1924, to the iconic Gitwinksihlkw Suspension Bridge, a vital link connecting our community across the rushing Nass River.
Today, we proudly honor our past by upholding the wisdom of our Simgigat (chiefs), Sigidimhaanak’ (nobility), and Elders. They guide us in preserving our Ayuuk (Nisga’a laws and customs) and Adaawak’ (oral histories). In everything we do, we strive to live by the core principle of Sayt-K'ilim-Goot (one heart, one path, one nation), ensuring that our resources and responsibilities are shared equally.
Our Community & Vision for the Future
Gitwinksihlkw today is a tight-knit, supportive community where culture thrives. We take immense pride in our members who have pursued higher education and brought valuable new skills back to our village. We are deeply committed to fostering a strong sense of belonging, encouraging community engagement, and providing ongoing opportunities for personal and professional growth.
As we look forward, our strategic priorities and vision are guided by a commitment to our people and our land:
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Culturally Vibrant: Strengthening and proudly celebrating our Nisga’a language, traditions, and artistic expression.
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Sustainable & Prosperous: Managing our resources responsibly for future generations while fostering economic development, supporting local businesses, and creating meaningful employment.
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Housing & Well-being: Providing access to quality healthcare and wellness programs, while aggressively addressing the need for affordable, high-quality housing to ensure all residents live comfortably.
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Tourism Development: Creating sustainable tourism opportunities that showcase our natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique local experiences.
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Connected Leadership: Building strong, collaborative relationships with neighboring communities, the Nisga’a Lisims Government, and regional partners.
Get in Touch
Phone: +1(250)633-2294
Email: contact@gitwinksihlkw.ca
Address: PO BOX 1, 3004 TS'OOHL TS'AP AV, GITWINKSIHLKW, BC, V0J 3T0
© 2026 Nisga'a Village of Gitwinksihlkw