The living culture of the Squamish First Nation will bring back an ancient tradition this weekend and they are inviting the entire community to be a part of it.
On Saturday (July 8) the legend of Kwos, the Salmon Chief, and the Origin of Salmon will be given a permanent home as the figure of Kwos, carved by Coast Salish and Squamish Nation artist Chief Floyd Joseph, will be raised at the eagle viewing ground on Government Road in Brackendale.
The legend is based on the actions of Kwos and his request to guests to set aside the bones from the salmon he had served and to throw them back into the ocean. Once his guest had done this, the bones immediately turned back into salmon. The legend also explains why Spring, Coho, Sockeye, and Chum salmon all come at different times of the year.
In light of the legend, salmon bones will be thrown in to the ocean during the pole raising ceremony and there will also be performances by Squamish Nation singers and dancers.
Squamish Nation educational director Joy McCullough said the ceremony is important for recognizing the health of their culture.
"We tell this legend all of the time, but it is important for the youth to know that we are a living culture," she said.The ceremony will begin at 1 p.m. and all members of the community are invited.
