The Tsawwassen First Nation has lost a respected leader.
On Tuesday night, surrounded by his loving family, Chief Swәnnәset Ken Baird passed away peacefully.
In a post on their Facebook page, the TFN said, “Chief Ken was a compassionate, wise, and kind leader who loved his family, the Tsawwassen people, and his culture with all his heart.”
The TFN said details regarding a funeral service would be announced soon.
Baird was elected Chief of the TFN in April 2019.
In a statement to the Optimist prior to the 2019 election, Baird said, "I believe our priorities should be our youth and elders. I am mature and have a lot of experience and think I could really help our community move forward. I have proven to be honest, reliable and dependable...The role of chief is a serious job and I am up for the task.”
Baird certainly backed up those words and then some.
He was a champion for the communities’ youth and that was spotlighted in February 2021, when the TFN opened up their new youth centre.
“Our young people are our future. They needed a place where they felt welcomed and valued,” said Baird during the opening ceremony.
In the last two years Baird has commented in a couple of columns in the Optimist about the importance of Truth and Reconciliation saying that although the road is long, “we are moving forward with hope and pride in our hearts.”
That speaks to Baird’s immense respect for the community as a whole and of the work that has been done and the work that we all have to continue to do.
Our deepest sympathies and condolences go out to the Baird family and the Tsawwassen First Nation on this tremendous loss. Know that you are all in our hearts and prayers in this difficult time.
Rest in peace Chief Swәnnәset.
