Tsimshian is an ethno-cultural group and Indigenous people residing predominantly in the northwestern region of British Columbia, Canada, encompassing the lower Skeena River and the adjacent coastal areas. The term "Tsimshian" is derived from the Sm'algyax language, which is spoken by the Tsimshian people, and it roughly translates to "inside the Skeena River." The Tsimshian population is also found in some areas of Alaska in the United States.
Tsimshian culture is rich and distinctive, with a profound emphasis on art, dance, and oral traditions. They have a matrilineal kinship system, where descent and inheritance are traced through the mother's line, implying that family and social structure are largely determined by maternal connections. Their traditional way of life revolved around fishing, hunting, and gathering, and they were proficient in constructing dugout canoes for transportation and accessing natural resources such as salmon.
The Tsimshian people have a unique system of clans, divided into four main groups called Eagle, Raven, Wolf, and Killer Whale, each represented by a distinctive crest. These crests play a significant role in their artistic expressions, including totem poles, masks, and regalia.
The Tsimshian language, Sm'algyax, is an endangered language and belongs to the Tsimshianic language family. It is characterized by its complex grammar and tonal qualities.
Today, the Tsimshian people continue to strive for cultural preservation, land and resource stewardship, and self-governance, while also embracing modern practices and integrating into the larger Canadian society.
