How to Pronounce Musqueam

Meaning and Context

The Musqueam are a Coast Salish First Nation whose traditional, unceded territory encompasses the mouth of the Fraser River and much of what is now metropolitan Vancouver, British Columbia. Their name, derived from the Halkomelem word xʷməθkʷəy̓əm, translates to "people of the river grass," a direct reference to the estuarine landscape and the vital resources of the Fraser River delta. With a documented history spanning thousands of years, the Musqueam have been and remain skilled fishers, weavers of cedar and wool, and custodians of a rich oral tradition. In the contemporary era, the Musqueam Indian Band, whose elected Chief and Council took office in 2023, is a leading voice in Indigenous rights, cultural revitalization, and sustainable land stewardship. They are a key partner in local governance and are renowned for institutions like the Musqueam Cultural Centre and the Museum of Anthropology at UBC, which sits on their territory, making them central to discussions of Vancouver history, Indigenous land claims, and Coast Salish art.

Common Mistakes and Alternative Spellings

The standard English spelling is Musqueam. However, due to its origin in the Halkomelem language, several phonetic approximations and historical spellings exist. The most common alternate spelling is Musqueam, which is identical but sometimes erroneously written as "Musquam" by omitting the 'e'. Other frequent misspellings and typos include "Musqeam" (dropping the 'u'), "Musquean" (substituting an 'n' for the 'm'), and "Muskqueam" (inserting a 'k'). It is also sometimes incorrectly pluralized as "Musqueams"; the correct plural reference is "the Musqueam people" or "Musqueam members." When writing the traditional name, xʷməθkʷəy̓əm, it is important to use the correct orthography, as omitting or misplacing the special characters changes the pronunciation and meaning.

Example Sentences

The Musqueam have lived in harmony with the Fraser River estuary for millennia, relying on its abundant salmon runs.

Visitors to Vancouver can learn about this deep history at the Musqueam Cultural Centre, which showcases stunning woven blankets and carved artifacts.

A landmark agreement between the Musqueam Indian Band, the City of Vancouver, and the provincial government was ratified in 2022, setting a precedent for collaborative land use.

The artist's design was deeply inspired by the traditional spindle whorl motifs of Musqueam heritage.

Recognizing the territory at the beginning of an event by stating you are on the unceded, traditional lands of the Musqueam people is a meaningful act of reconciliation.

Related Pronunciations

• How to pronounce Shymkent
• How to pronounce Guaynabo
• How to pronounce San Miguel de La Palma
• How to pronounce Qarshi
• How to pronounce Ysyk Köl