Stó꞉lō

The Stó꞉lō (also spelled Sto:lo, Stó:lô, or Stolo; Halkomelem: Stó:lō, meaning "river") are a group of First Nations peoples inhabiting the Fraser Valley region of southwestern British Columbia, Canada, extending from the Fraser Canyon near Hope to the mouth of the Fraser River. The term Stó:lō originally referred to the Fraser River itself.

The Stó:lō are not a single, unified political entity. Instead, they comprise numerous bands and tribal communities, each with its own governance, history, and customs. These bands speak dialects of Halkomelem, a Coast Salish language. The Upriver Halkomelem dialect is spoken in the upper regions of the Fraser Valley, while the Downriver Halkomelem dialect is spoken closer to the Fraser River delta.

Historically, the Stó:lō relied on the Fraser River and its tributaries for sustenance, primarily through fishing, but also through hunting and gathering. Salmon was a vital resource. They developed sophisticated fishing technologies and sustainable harvesting practices.

Today, the Stó:lō continue to assert their rights and title to their traditional territories. They are actively involved in resource management, environmental protection, and the preservation and revitalization of their language and culture. The Stó:lō Nation is a tribal council representing several Stó:lō communities. Numerous other Stó:lō bands are not part of the Stó:lō Nation and operate independently. Efforts are ongoing to address historical injustices and build a stronger future for Stó:lō communities.