For thousands of years, the Squamish Nation have conducted potlatches to exchange values.
Last Friday (April 27), the potlatch tradition proved to be alive and well at Howe Sound Secondary School, where a three-hour ceremony drew students, teachers, B.C. Premier Gordon Campbell, husband of principal Nancy Campbell, and Chief Gibby Jacob.
"This is the first time we've had a premier involved in one of our potlatches," said Jacob. "The First Nations people never had a chance to welcome settlers when they first came, they just pushed their way in so today I can say you are welcome."
Campbell also extended his warm wishes - without acknowledging the students who reportedly protested his presence before the event. "I came here to support the school for holding a potlatch because it reminds us all in kind of an informal, comfortable way that we all have stories, and when people are willing to share those stories, we're all the richer for it," said Campbell.
"It's a start [towards healing rifts between cultures]. I hope more schools will pick up on it."
The potlatch kicked off with personal stories from eight students of different ethnic backgrounds. Teachers read the students' tales of Scottish pudding, Indian traditions and Korean practices in an effort to help kids accept their individuality. "I was raised around here, so I knew a bit about the First Nations' culture because it is so local, and it was neat to hear all the other kids' stories," said Grade 12 student, Paige Sotham.
Squamish Nation Chief Dale Harry said the potlatch would create an enduring legacy.
"Every one of these students that are here today will take some of the things they need, and they'll pass it on to their family."
