"The development, Sen̓ák̓w, which roughly translates to 'the place inside the head of False Creek,' is a reserve that belongs to the Squamish Nation, who have lived in North America since long before the arrival of Europeans."
"No Squamish had lived on this land since 1913, when residents were forced out and the provincial government burned the original Sen̓ák̓w village behind them. After a decades-long court case, the Squamish reclaimed these 10.5 acres in the early 2000s."
"The return of Sen̓ák̓w is a meaningful act of reconciliation and recompense. It also shows how broken the housing market is in cities like Vancouver."
"Reserves like Sen̓ák̓w, though, are not bound by these regulations, allowing for higher density housing that is desperately needed in the city."
Sen̓ák̓w, a development by the Squamish Nation, features eleven residential towers on reclaimed land in Vancouver. This site, once home to the original Sen̓ák̓w village, was abandoned in 1913. The project includes 250 to 300 rental apartments for Squamish families, marking a significant moment of reconciliation. Unlike other areas in North America, reserves like Sen̓ák̓w are not restricted by zoning laws, allowing for higher density housing. The development highlights the urgent housing crisis in Vancouver, reflecting the challenges faced by younger generations seeking affordable homes.
Read at The Walrus
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