Halq’eméylem Language Diploma – First Graduates | 2025

What began as a single language course at the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) in 2005 has grown into a full diploma program dedicated to preserving and revitalizing the Indigenous language of the Stó:lō people. This year (2025), we celebrate the graduation of our first cohort of Upriver Halq’eméylem speakers.

Upriver Halq’eméylem is a dialect of Halkomelem, spoken for thousands of years by Stó:lō communities along the Fraser River and its tributaries, on Vancouver Island from Malahat to Nanoose and along the Cowichan River, and in parts of Washington State. This milestone is an important step in keeping the Stó:lō language vibrant and alive.

The significance of this achievement has also been recognized by local media. We thank local journalists for sharing these stories and extend our deepest gratitude to our graduates for their dedication and incredible work. We are so proud of each and every one of you!

Check out the full articles:

Future of Good – https://futureofgood.co/program-aimed-at-revitalizing-upriver-halqemeylem-language-sees-first-graduates/

Agassiz-Harison – https://www.agassizharrisonobserver.com/community/8-seabird-island-students-to-graduate-with-ufv-halqemeylem-certificates-8049995

Chilliwack Progress – https://www.theprogress.com/community/first-ufv-halqemeylem-graduates-helping-keep-stol-language-alive-8100511

Fraser Valley Current – https://fvcurrent.com/p/may-26-2025