Heiltsuk

A language of Canada

ISO 639: hei
Alternate Names: Hailhzaqvla
Population: 66 (FPCC 2014). 50 semi-speakers; 6 remaining speakers of Oowekyala (FPCC 2014). Ethnic population: 2,530 (FPCC 2014).
Location:: British Columbia province: Bella Bella and Kitasoo villages, Rivers Inlet area.
Language Status: 7 (Shifting). Language of recognized indigenous peoples: Heiltsuk, Wuikinuxv.
Classification: Wakashan, Northern Wakashan, Kwakiutlan
Dialects: Bella Bella (Belbellah, Northern Heiltsuk), Oowekyala (Heiltsuk-Oweek’ala, Oowekeno, Oweek’ala, ’Uikala). Related to Haisla [has] and Kwakwala [kwk].
Language Use: Adults only. All shifting to English [eng].
Language Development: Local teaching program in Bella Bella. Dictionary.

Location: British Columbia province: Bella Bella and Kitasoo villages, Rivers Inlet area.