Why are we doing this work?
Our culture provides a sense of belonging
We do this for our children, grandchildren, and future generations, who are at the heart of everything we do. Our culture provides a sense of belonging, and our dream is for everyone to be included and to understand its importance. Following the path our ancestors laid out, we embrace Maya’x̱a̱lapa – respecting one another and living with integrity and honour. We aim to reinforce our culture and illuminate the path for our children and grandchildren.
Hereditary chiefs had stewardship over the land. This created a sense of belonging. What belongs to the namima (clan house) the government disrupted.
Culturally, the traditional community includes 15 tribes comprising of seventy-seven namima (clans).
Kwaguł, Mamalillikalla, Namgis, Tlawitsis, Da’naxda’xw ,Ma’amtaglia, Kwikwasutainukw, Gwa’wainukw, Tsawatainukw ,Walitsma, Wi’wakai, Wi’wakum, Nakwaktakw, Gwasala, Pentlatch, E’iksan, K’omoks.
Na̱nwakola
“Discussing things to produce the right solutions.”
Inviting people to discuss the needs of their ‘na’mima and community is a powerful way to solve problems. The old chiefs and matriarchs worked to draw wisdom to the house floor for millennia. Everyone in the house was considered a vessel for wisdom and leadership. Both men and women were viewed in this light. Our leaders met around food, song, and story and shared ideas and needs. A chief (host) provided food from his ‘na’mima territory and gave generously. He did not hold back. Feast songs were sung, and a story was shared to set the tone for the discussions. Everyone was heard. Reflection on what was said was an important part of the meeting process. Sometimes, the reflection was for a couple of days. Then, decisions were made.
Key Moments in Indigenous History
This timeline, created by Historica Canada, identifies key moments in the history of Indigenous peoples across this land.
