Laxyuup refers to the lands of the Tsm’syen.

Laxyuup Refers to the Lands of the Tsm’syen

Category: Tsm’syen Law Page status: Working

Statement

• • Laxyuup refers to the lands of the Tsm’syen.**

This statement defines the scope and meaning of Laxyuup in Tsm’syen law.

Meaning

Laxyuup refers to the lands and waters that belong to the Tsm’syen through law, history, and responsibility.

It includes:

• Territories held by houses and clans
• Rivers, shorelines, and waters
• Villages, camps, and travel routes
• Named, sacred, and historical places

Laxyuup is a legal and relational concept, not a general description of space.

Lawful Context

Under Tsm’syen law:

• Laxyuup is governed by ayaawx
• Relationship to Laxyuup carries responsibility
• Authority over Laxyuup is conditional and limited
• Use of Laxyuup is subject to stewardship

Laxyuup cannot be separated from law or responsibility.

Identity

Relationship to Laxyuup forms identity.

• Houses are defined through territory
• Names carry obligation to specific lands
• Belonging is tied to place, not registration

Identity without relationship to Laxyuup is incomplete.

Limits

Laxyuup does not refer to:

• Private property
• Administrative boundaries
• Crown-defined land categories
• Temporary control or occupation

External labels do not redefine Laxyuup.

Continuity

Laxyuup endures beyond individuals and governments.

• Territorial law is inherited
• Responsibility continues across generations
• Memory and practice preserve boundaries

Laxyuup remains the lawful lands of the Tsm’syen.