Indigenous Peoples Day - June 21st
This year, on Indigenous Peoples Day, there were two important celebrations that took place in both Tla-o-qui-aht and Ahousaht territories.
The Life of Meares Celebration took place at the Wickaninnish Community School where stories and songs were shared, along with cultural displays and speakers, including David Suzuki. The gathering recognized the individuals, families, leaders, allies, and Nations who stood alongside Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation in defense of the land and waters. Additionally, a cedar canoe was presented, to honour the Haida leaders and knowledge shared from Haida Gwaii that inspired the early Tribal Parks movement.
Awakening of the Totems - Maaqutusiis Hahoulthee Stewardship Society (MHSS) revealed two new totem poles at Mux̣ʷšiƛa (Hot Springs Cove) to celebrate the renaming of Nism̓aakqin (briefly, formally Maquinna Marine Provincial Park) and the shared responsibility to the ʕaḥuusʔatḥ Ḥaḥuułi. The revealing of the poles was a recognition of Ahousaht's ancestors, teachings, and responsibilities. The morning celebration included a traditional awakening of the totems, with participants and witnesses present, followed by a delicious salmon lunch.
