I acknowledge that we are on Secwepemc territory on which we live, work and play. Said often, it was the fitting reminder to all who attended last week’s aboriginal grad in the new Splatsin community centre in Enderby.
Fashioned after a traditional Shuswap pit house, the large and beautiful main room rises to the sky above, with windows to let in the light. On Thursday night, the room was filled with happy, chattering guests, proud to honour the 61 aboriginal graduates who will receive their Dogwood certificates later this month.
Carrying a ceremonial staff, Splatsin Chief Wayne Christian led the procession of graduates into the room, accompanied by the sound of many drums. Following Elder Ethel Thomas’ opening prayer, Christian stood at the podium, revealing his First Nations name – Big Voice That Speaks the Truth.
The chief lived up to his name, relating the tale of the porcupine. As always in aboriginal storytelling, there are lessons to be learned. So began the tale of the Elk People and the Bird People, who were very much at odds with each other. Tired of the constant discord, Swan decided to try to bring the two nations together. So he asked Coyote to go to the Elk People to set up a meeting between the two fractious nations.
But while he agreed to take on the challenge, Coyote fooled around, never meeting Swan’s request. When Porcupine was asked to take over, Coyote laughed and made fun of him. To everyone’s surprise, Porcupine, although slower, was successful in bringing the two nations together – a reminder of the importance of collaboration and commitment.
“Are you going to be a coyote or a porcupine?” Christian asked the grads. “Go out and get it done for yourself and your family.”
Salmon Arm Secondary School valedictorian Spencer Rennie, bounded onto the stage with a wide grin, announcing his origins as a member of Vancouver Island’s Xa’xsta First Nation.
“I went to a meeting, and because I am large and white, they named me Polar Bear,” he said to enthusiastic laughter and applause.
In a more serious vein, he thanked Sullivan campus aboriginal education support workers and said he appreciated that all aboriginals, be they status, non-status, Métis or other First Nations are equally welcome.
“We stand on the shoulders of our ancestors,” said Rennie, quoting School District #83 teacher/counsellor Glen Jollymour. “Prepare your shoulders.”
The ceremonial staff was handed on to a Grade 11 Pleasant Valley Secondary student, whose school will be responsible for next year’s aboriginal graduation. Following a moving honour song, everyone in the audience of 295 was invited to participate in a round dance, which was accomplished with much hilarity.
The entire ceremony was one of inclusion and warm welcome.
Kukwstsetsemc.