On October 14, the Xʷsepsəm Nation and the Township of Esquimalt signed a relationship agreement that the township, in an October 22 news release, called a historic step. The agreement formalizes a longstanding relationship and sets a framework for working together on matters of mutual interest, including regular meetings between the township’s mayor and council and the Nation’s Chief and Council, and regular meetings of staff from both governments.
“Today is a historic step forward in the relationship between Xʷsepsəm Nation and the Township of Esquimalt,” Chief Jerome Thomas said in the release. “This agreement recognizes our shared commitment to working together in a meaningful way and demonstrates how strong relationships can support reconciliation, mutual understanding, and lasting benefits for our communities.” Outgoing Esquimalt Mayor Barbara Desjardins called it “another important milestone,” and said the agreement “encourages further and future collaboration between our communities for greater cultural and economic benefits.”
The official release lists areas of mutual interest that are expected to stay on the agenda: archaeological and heritage conservation, planning and development, placemaking, economic development, healthy communities, and public safety. It also points to recent work already underway, including a shared vision for the Island Rail Corridor through the Reconciliation Corridor Initiative, and placemaking with Public Services and Procurement Canada and the Department of National Defence that is meant to reflect lək̓ʷəŋən history and culture around Esquimalt Harbour and the township.
The signing ceremony was marked with a gift of two Garry oak trees. One is to be planted at Esquimalt Gorge Park and the other at Xʷsepsəm Nation, each with a matching plaque. The township points readers to esquimaltnation.ca and esquimalt.ca for more about the two governments.
Good to know
- The relationship agreement was signed October 14, 2026, and announced by the Township of Esquimalt on October 22.
- It commits the Nation and the township to regular elected and staff meetings on shared priorities.
- Official release: esquimalt.ca.
Image: Official photograph from the Township of Esquimalt October 22, 2026 news release, showing Chief Jerome Thomas and Mayor Barbara Desjardins at the signing.
Photo: Township of Esquimalt, Official photograph from township news release, via source.
