35
th Annual
BC Elders
Gathering
Qepóthet te Mestiyexw - “Bringing People Together” “Honouring our ancestors through our elders & recognizing our future through our youth”
Hosted by the Stó:lo & Coast Salish Communities July 12th - 14th, 2011 Tradex, Abbotsford, British Columbia www.35theldersgathering.com
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BC Elders
Gathering
Program published by: Black Press The Agassiz Harrison Observer 7167 Pioneer Ave. Box 129 Agassiz, B.C. V0M 1A0 Tel: 604-796-4301 Fax: 604-796-2081 www.ahobserver.com
Table of Contents 3 Message from the Chair 4 Message from the Queen 5 Message from the King 6 Message from the Lieutenant Governor
Publisher: Andrew Franklin Graphic Design: Brittany Best Photos: Black Press & Chris Christoforou Artwork: George Pennier Media & Program Coordinator: Dianne Garner
7 Message from the Premier 8 Message from Honourable Mary Polak 9 Message from the Mayor of Abbotsford 10 Message from the Union of BC Indian Chiefs 11 Message from the Event Coordinator 11 About the Logo & the Artist 12 Role of the King & Queen 13 Why an Elders Gathering? 14 Bidding of the Pole 15 Biography of the Queen & King 16 St贸:lo Elder Ray Silver 18 Past Kings & Queens 20 Core Planning Group 20 Event Coordinator & Sub Coordinators 21 Event Schedule 22 Thank You to our Sponsors 22 Brad Boyes Biography 23 Sponsors
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Message from the Chair The Elders Gathering means to me I can come out of my isolation and spread the teachings of our culture and traditional ways. I embrace all our elders who have lost their voice and ask the Creator to give them the strength that they need to take their voices back. This is the time for sharing and caring. The Creator has blessed us with Elders who tirelessly share their Culture and traditional teachings. I look forward to seeing all our old friends at the 35th Elders Gathering and meeting new friends. My traditional name is “Quetosiya”; my Christian name is Millie Silver and I am an elder from the Sumas First Nation in Abbotsford, BC. Qepothet ye mestiyexw tl’o shxwetalims ye xwexwilmexw. Teli kw’eselh we’o’o iyothet. E’qepothet mekw’ ye xwelmexw kw’es mi:s q’elstexwes te shxweli xwela ye st’elt’elawtexw; kw’e tl’etl’axel,kw’e o’lhet,kw’e momilhtel.qesu oyeqtel ye selyolexw ye s_xwo_xwiyam iyolem kw’es ye’ays ye se’wiwes.Te shxwteli:m tset iyolem kw’esu helems cha o. I was born in Chehalis First Nation on December 8, 1937. My dad and mom are Bill and Nancy Phillips who had 12 children together. I went to Chehalis Day School until I was 14 years old and then I attended St. Mary’s Indian Residential School. I graduated from Grade 12 in June 1957.
I got married in November 1959 and had five children, three sons and two daughters. My children are gifts from the Creator and I am grateful for them. I have worked for the Jericho Hill School for the Deaf and the Blind, Menno Intermediate Care in Abbotsford and as an Instructors Assistant for Native Education in Chehalis. I was CHR for Stó:lo Tribal Council and Stó:lo Nation until I retired in 2009. I enjoy being with our Elders who are my teachers, who have taught me so much, and I will ever be grateful for their teachings. I am a Spiritual dancer in our Traditional Longhouse. I enjoy being with my husband, Ray Silver who is my soul mate. We are caretakers of our Traditional Longhouse in Sumas First Nation. There is a saying: Each act of kindness, and thoughtfulness makes the world a kinder and gentle place. All my relations, 35th Annual BC Elders Gathering Chair Elder Millie Silver - “Quetosiya” Semath First Nation
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Message from the Queen Qepothet Ye Mestiyexw is the way of our people. To bring spirit to the community to feast, to honor, to support and to share stories the teachings are handed down to the next generations by our respected elders—our ways must go on forever. The queen is someone who is highly respected and holds the reign for special purposes and being the queen for the 35th elders gathering was humbling and emphasizes to all the importance of the elders being put in their rightful places in the families and their community. Their voices and the teachings from the elders have been quiet for so long and its time for them to take that role and its importance for the future generations and the revival. Future generations will need to get this from their elders and not be led astray by the bright lights. Our young people are more drawn to outside events and not spending the time with family and community they need to take time to be with one another. Elder Virginia Peters "Siyamex" Sts’ailes
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Kw’els Kwi’yel telo syilolem xwela yel ts’elh selyolexwe e’tsel xwe selawa qetsel ew th’oyxwem.Teli kw’e alhew syilolem qesetu yukw’es yo:wt te ts’elh selyolexwe hikw sq’epothet cha. Tset(Ki’yel Kwi’yel) e’q’aptelmel kw’esu mekw’s wat e’mi te sq’epothet telexw kw’e ey teli ye selyolexwa-Mi:s chowiyoslexw mekw’ te shxwetelims,slhaq’s te ey shxwhelems ye xwelmexw .Cha xwe iyem ye ts’elh xwexwilmexw lis kwutes te siwes ye ts’elh selyolexwa.Qepothet kw’e mekw’wat. Chasu lheq’elexwes kw’es selho’lh mekw’ ye selyolexwa kwutes kw’e iyem sqwalewel, chasu ye’ays o te ey siwes .Mekw lheq’elexw kwes cha eyso kw’es ye’ays ye qays cha. Te ilh syilolem xwechomes ye qe_x si:ya:ye kw’etslexw ye ewelh kw’etslexw kw’e lheq’etselxa syilolem olu ey sqwalewel. Elder Virginia Peters "Siyamex" Sts’ailes
Message from the King The privilege to be able to represent the Stó:lo and to be nominated as King is quite an undertaking. It’s an honor to be nominated by the Stó:lo to take the place of all the elders in our territory and in BC. It is one of the biggest things that happens for our Elders. It only lasts for a year and the things that you have to do will stay with you for a lifetime. I hope that everyone enjoys the 35th Elders Gathering as we did this past year. I hope that the future king and queen will be able to represent their nation in their traditional manner also. Wherever this conference will be going I know that they will enjoy it and we will have an understanding of how much they will enjoy their success.
Sqwal teli te Kiyel(Quahonn)xwela te ew sq’epothets ye ts’elh selyolexwa.E’ts’el tsel xwa s’olh xwemi tl’e elthe kwes kwixethalem kw’els Kiyel xwela ye steltolo telo syilolem selyolexwa hikw sq’epothet. Tsel siswelmet kw’els s’olh lit la xwiwel shihoyes xwela ye Lexw Qwit_xelhp. Qesu tl’o olu hikw el skwi_xthet.Cha we lots’e o syiolem qe tseta hakw’eles kw’su helems cha’o. Ey cha lis eyosthet kw’e mekw’ wats te’ile syilolem lhe’a kwetelh hilekw xwela te ts’elh selyolexwa sq’epothet tset. Ey cha we lis ew ste’a ‘o te sqwalewel kw’e kwixetem Kwi’yel qas Kiyel xwela te shxwtelis qa chasu eys kw’es hilekws xwela te syewal syilolem.
Thanks everyone for attending and being there and for all those who spent countless hours planning this event.
Elder Johnny E. Williams "Quahonn" Scowlitz First Nation
Elder Johnny E. Williams "Quahonn" Scowlitz First Nation
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OFFICE OF THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR __________________________________________________________________ 2011 Éy Siyá:m te Siyá:ye – Good Leaders, Elders and Friends I am pleased to join all the Elders who have gathered here for the 35th Annual Elders’ Conference. My thanks to the Stó:lŮ people for hosting everyone this year; I know it is a huge endeavour. There is a lot of fundraising, volunteering and organization needed to bring this conference together. Grand Chief Clarence Pennier and his team have been working on this for months and they have done a wonderful job. To all the Elders at this year’s conference I offer my congratulations on another successful year. I would like to thank last year’s King and Queen, JD and Ethel Billy, for the outstanding job they have done. I also offer my congratulations to this year’s King, "Qwahonn" Johnny Williams, and Queen "Siyamex" Virginia Peters. As the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, I bring greetings on behalf of both Her Majesty The Queen and the people of this province. I wish you all the very best at this year’s gathering and safe travels on your journey home. Sincerely,
The Honourable Steven L. Point, OBC Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia
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A Message from the Premier As Premier of the Province of British Columbia, I am very pleased to welcome everyone to the 35th Annual Elders Gathering [Qep贸rhet te Mestiyexw] in Abbotsford, hosted by the Sto:lo and Coast Salish Communities. This is another great opportunity to bring people together to honour your ancestors and all of the advice and guidance they gave to their families and their communities. This is also a time to celebrate past accomplishments, enlighten youth and regenerate elders for future work. I commend everyone involved in organizing the program for this special gathering. Your hard work and dedication will ensure an enriching and memorable time for all those participating and provide a refreshed foundation for everyone. I wish you all the best in your deliberations as you engage in open communication and plan together for today, tomorrow and long into the future. Sincerely,
Christy Clark Premier
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A Message from the Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation I would like to send my best wishes for the 35th Annual BC Elders Gathering, held on Sto:lo Traditional Territory. As Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation, I am delighted to see this event continue to grow, providing a place where Aboriginal Elders can come together, exchange stories and cultural practices, and discuss future work. As Elders, you bring valuable knowledge about the traditions, languages, and wisdom of your nations. You are the storytellers and oral record-keepers, linking the past, present and future by sharing what you know. You carry significant influence and are included in every aspect of your culture because of the insight you hold and pass on. Once again, the Province of British Columbia is pleased to provide $25,000, to assist Elders’ organizations throughout the province in sending delegates to this Annual Gathering. Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation staff were privileged to attend and support the Gathering last year as volunteers. I am honoured to again make staff available for this year’s Gathering, which I am sure will be another great success. Sincerely,
Mary Polak Minister
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Wáy! On behalf of the Union of BC Indian Chiefs’, Jennifer Bobb and I would also like to welcome the Elders, the Youth, the families and the leadership from the many Indigenous communities across British Columbia, to the 35th Annual BC Elders Gathering. We would like to especially thank and acknowledge Queen Siyamex Virginia Peters, King Qwahonn Johnny Williams and the Stó:lo for generously hosting this year’s gathering. It is increasingly clear, governments are streamlining and harmonizing their policies with the intention to fast-tracking the alienation of our lands, our waters and resources to third party corporate interests. Our Title, Rights and Treaty Rights are being minimized and/or ignored. Over the years, many of our communities have fought hard to win landmark court decisions such as Sparrow, Delgamuukw, William and Haida. Each court victory have added a new dimension to the legal obligations on government and third parties to consult, accommodate and if necessary, receive our consent when they are considering resource development activities within our respective territories.
what we need to do as Indigenous Peoples to learn from each other, to learn from our Elders, to have our Elders learn and teach each other. As Elders you have always guided our communities, our families and ourselves through the most difficult of times and the most joyous of times. You have defended our territories in the courts, in government hearings and on the land. You have cared for our children and families. You have endured residential schools during the darkest chapter of Canadian history. Your strength allows your communities, your families and the many friends around you today to be proud of who we are and where we come from. During the course of the next three days we will have the opportunity to collectively discuss our concerns and share our successes. We will also have time to say hello, share a story or two (or three) and to celebrate your many accomplishments. We look forward to this year’s Gathering and for the many Gatherings to come. Thank you - Liml mt.
Over the years, many of our communities have fought hard to engage and negotiate agreements from government and third parties in fishing, forestry, mining, children in care, health, language and education. The theme of this year’s Gathering, Qepóthet te Mestiyexw - Bringing People Together, beautifully expresses
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Jennifer Bobb Elders Representative of the Union of BC Indian Chiefs Grand Chief Stewart Phillip President of the Union of BC Indian Chiefs
Event Coordinator Grand Chief Clarence Pennier, better known as Kat, is currently the Acting President of the Stó:lo Tribal Council and the 35th Elders Gathering Coordinator. Kat served as Chairman of the Stó:lo Tribal Council. Kat worked in senior management positions for the Union of BC Indian Chiefs, Coqualeetza Cultural Centre, Stó:lo Nation and the Stó:lo Tribal Council. Kat served one year as Chief Negotiator for the Stó:lo Nation and he also served as Senior Advisor to the Chief Negotiator for six years. In 1994, Stó:lo Chiefs recognized Kat for his 20 years as the elected Chief and Councillor of the Scowlitz Indian Band and his dedicated service to the Stó:lo. The Stó:lo Nation honoured him with a sacred ceremony and named him a Grand Chief in 1994. Grand Chief Clarence Pennier has devoted most of his adult life to advocating on behalf of aboriginal issues. His hard work, dedication and his enduring passion for the betterment of the Stó:lo has been a driving force and is his lasting legacy.
Grand Chief Clarence Pennier
Since time immemorial, the creator gifted us with life, to survive in harmony and balance with all other beings, and in turn his promise to us is that we will not be without what we need to survive. We therefore must share, respect, conserve, and love in a reciprocal manner. Hence the term, All my relations. "Thetsimiya"
About the Artist Wendy M. (Point) Ritchie was born in Chilliwack, B.C. She is Coast Salish which encompasses the Stó:lo Nation, and the Skowkale First Nation from which she was raised. She was educated through combined efforts of Stó:lo Nation, University College of the Fraser Valley, Simon Fraser University and N.V.I.T. She majored in Halq’eméylem language and Culture, which led her to a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. She is an author of many children’s books in the Halq’emeylem language. Wendy has recently been teaching the language through N.V.I.T. and Coqualeetza Cultural Education Centre.
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Role of the King & Queen At the sixth Annual Provincial Elder’s Gathering in 1982, the Prince George group hosted and introduced the position of King and Queen. These positions were for two individuals who actively participated and/or had outgoing personalities. Elders were nominated and a vote was taken. The first King was Gus Raphael from Stoney Creek and the first Queen was Dolly Felix from Chehalis. They were presented with a headdress, sash and a button blanket. These gifts were to be in the possession of the reigning King and Queen then turned over to the next King and Queen at the next Gathering. These positions were not intended to determine who would host the next gathering. It was to recognize two outstanding individuals only. They do not have to be married or a couple, they do not have to be from the same band/nation, they only have to be a male and female who thoroughly enjoy the gathering. This is the way that the Prince George group wanted to show their appreciation to individual Elders. We all know that over time things change. Many started to think the position of King and Queen should be from the hosting community. This became an accepted practice. Unfortunately, this started to take precedence over the
The Stó:lo & Coast Salish People In 1808, when Simon Fraser exited the Fraser Canyon, he encountered the Stó:lo. We occupy the land on both sides of todays Fraser River from the “white waters” of the Fraser Canyon to where the Fraser enters the Salish Sea at Vancouver. We are known as the People of the River. We are also a part of a larger group known as the Coast Salish. Stó:lo People speak Halq’emelem.
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passing of the Totem pole, the official symbol of the Gatherings. At the 1998 Gathering in Prince George, I met one of the last remaining Elders who was involved in introducing the role of King and Queen. She asked me to announce the proper procedure on bidding for the Totem pole to host the next gathering and explain the intended role of the King and Queen. Unfortunately, we did not meet earlier at the Gathering because by the time she asked me to do this, the Master of Ceremonies announced the newly elected King and Queen (determined by a number of votes) at the same time the Kamloops group (host of the 1999 Gathering) was introducing their chosen King and Queen. I did go to the M.C. and requested permission to speak on behalf of this lady and the Coqualeetza Elders to inform and correct the procedure for passing the Totem pole and positions of King and Queen. I was heard and understood. It was good that this was corrected at the same place the role of King and Queen was introduced and corrected by one of the original Elders who knew the history of these positions and by the Coqualeetza Elders who know the history of the totem pole.
Why an Elders Gathering? The purpose for an Elder’s Gathering is so the Elders can come together and take their rightful place as advisors, teachers and leaders. Many Elders are involved and work at the community level throughout the year. They participate at meetings, workshops and various events to support the youth, education committees, Band Councils and so on. The Gatherings are a time to socialize and celebrate their accomplishments as well as regenerate themselves for future work. It provides opportunity for Elders to share traditional ways with visiting cultural and linguistic groups. This ris done through food, songs, dances and ceremonies. Some cultural activities witnessed at the Gath-erings were, a name giving ceremony, totem m pole raising ceremony, revival of the Bumblee Bee dance not publicly demonstrated for over er one hundred years, a traditional wedding, a give-away of hereditary chief’s belongings and d name/title and role were handed down and d many singing and dance groups. This event is to honour and give thanks to o our Elders. The first Annual Provincial Elder’ss Gathering was hosted by the Coqualeetza El-ders Group in October 1977.
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Bidding for the Pole Bidding for the Totem pole is the highlight of the Gathering. Everyone is so happy and anxious to find out where they will be traveling to next year. Each year, attendance is growing. Any group/nation planning on hosting next year's Gathering must come fully prepared to bid for the Totem pole. Planning and executing an event of this magnitude involves the cooperation, support and commitment of all community members. Therefore, anyone interested in bidding to host the Gathering must have full authorization and permission from their community members to bid for the pole. You then come to the Gathering and announce your intention of hosting the next Gathering. There are usually three or four locations bidding for the pole each year. You must be prepared to convince everyone that your community is the best location. Many groups come in full regalia and have a singing/dance group to back the speaker. You explain that you do have the support of your community then entice them by stating you have ideal facilities to accommodate all of the anticipated guests, best accommodations, tourist attractions, best Bingo halls and/or casinos within one hundred miles. You may exaggerate, however you must be able to produce if you are successful in getting the bid. Each group wishing to host the next Gathering tries to out do the other groups. Names of hopeful hosts are written on papers. The papers are circulated to everyone in attendance. After marking one location, all papers are collected and counted. Then the successful bidder is announced. The hosting community then formally passes the totem to the next hosting community. Because the King and Queen have been from the hosting community gifts are then given to the past King and Queen. Financial donations and words of congratulations and encouragement are extended to the next hosting nation.
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Biography of the Queen & King Elder Virginia Peters
Elder Johnny Williams
I was born in Agassiz, BC on September 17, 1942 and raised in Chehalis, into a family of thirteen. My father was from Chehalis, my mother from Tzeachten, both Stó:lo Nation communities. My parents came from large families, therefore we have many relatives (at least 1,500) not only within the Fraser Valley but also in the Nooksack Tribe, Washington, Vancouver South Island, Douglas Band (Harrison Lake) and Mount Currie. I attended Chehalis Day School, St. Mary’s Residential School and Agassiz Secondary School.
"Qwahonn is my traditional name and my English name given to me is Johnny E. Williams. I am an elder from the Scowlitz First Nation. I was born in Mission B.C. on June 22, 1938 and was raised in Scowlitz. I come from a family of seven. My father was Johnny Williams from Scowlitz, and my mother is Gertrude Nelson from Mt. Currie. I attended St. Mary’s residential school from 1949 to 1956 which is in Mission B.C.
I have been provided with valuable experiences: growing up with a large family working together for survival and benefiting from the real meaning of communal living; going to a residential school which gave me a strong appreciation for family and how I felt to be separated from them; and going to a school that was entirely different, being one of the first to attend a public school after integration was accepted.The teachings gave me a strong cultural and spiritual background that provided me with my high morals and work ethic. Being family and community-oriented, I continue to dedicate much time and effort to assist in community development and healing. I firmly believe that culture and spirituality are key to healing and rebuilding the strength of our families and communities. Since 1960 I have had a strong commitment for community development in all areas – spiritually, emotionally, physically, and intellectually, and continue to do whatever I can to help our Aboriginal communities become strong and healthy again. My hope is that our following generations will be able to live according to the seven laws of life which are health, happiness, generosity, generations, gratitude, understanding and forgiveness. Living according to the teaching of our ancestors to always love, share and care provides the foundation of the ways of our people.
"Growing up my dad and brother taught me to fish and hunt which is still a big part of my life today. Our family would also travel to pick berries, hops, beans and cucumbers here in the Fraser Valley. I met my wife in 1958 and we got married in 1960. I have two children and three stepchildren. I also have numerous grandchildren and great – grandchildren. "I became a logger at a young age and was a logger from 1956 – 2000. I worked for Purdy Timber in Chehalis and Lineham logging. The only reason I left logging is because of health reasons. "I went into the Musqueam Long House in 1971. I am a leader in the longhouse today because I was there at the beginning of the rival of the spiritual ways which is helping to ensure the teachings are passed on the next generations. "My life follows the seasons. In the summer I help to judge at the traditional canoe races, which is a very big part of my summer season. In the past, I helped coach the women’s pulling crew and also participated in the war canoe racing."
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Stó:lo Elder Sumas First Nations elder speaks about life during the Great Depression. Once forbidden to speak their own language, the Coqualeetza are restoring vibrant cultural traditions and beliefs. In today’s world, Coqualeetza elder Ray Silver and his people of the Stó:lo nation are free to speak their native language. It was not always that way. Growing up in the 1930s, the Halq’emeylem tongue was forbidden by the government, even punishable by imprisonment, so his fearful parents didn’t teach him. Since practising their culture was illegal, many traditions, such as powwows or gatherings, were stopped. “Right here in Sumas we had a great big longhouse where people from all over came,” recalls the 82-year-old Silver. “And the elders spoke to the younger people about who they were and
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what they were to do. To look after Mother Earth, respect one another, learn who we were.” Now an elder himself, Silver said when he was a child his elders told him stories about the sacred caves on Sumas Mountain that brought winter songs to his people. “It was a gift from the Great Spirit for our people.” Born in 1929, Silver grew up in Abbotsford during the Great Depression, when money was scarce and prejudice was common. It was 1940 when he and his younger brother, Dalton, started public school in Sumas. When the Department of Indian Affairs found out, they were put in the Presbyterian Co-
hour until it burned down in 1948. “That was big money,” he says smiling. Since there weren’t many native kids his age, he would go fishing in Marshall Creek with the white children of the brick workers. They caught trout and salmon in the spring as millions of fish would come down the rivers, which he said kept many families fed during the Depression. “We had hazelnut poles and linen thread for our lines and a homemade hook to catch the trout. And the water was so clean you could see them go after the worm.” The Stó:lo are river people, Silver says, and he used to paddle the Sumas to the Fraser with his grandfather. When he was a boy, his grandfather told him the river provided everything his people needed: water for tea, salmon, sturgeon and nourishment. “You look after that water, respect that water, and it’ll respect you forever. That was the teaching I got from my grandfather, probably close to 80 years ago.” qualeetza residential school. “We were just coming home from school and the guy picked us up on the hill here and took us in to Coqualeetza school without the permission of my father and mother. They didn’t know.” After Coqualeetza closed in 1940, Silver and his brother were shipped to Port Alberni residential school on Vancouver Island.
coming with us?’ He says, ‘yeah, your brother’s coming.’ And when the ferry blew its whistle at the CPR dock in Vancouver, he says, ‘Your brother’s downstairs, in a box.’ He died.” Silver buried Dalton on Sumas Mountain, and afterwards he told his parents he’d never go back to school again. “If that’s what school’s all about, they can keep it.”
Silver said he didn’t learn how to read or write in school, but he did learn how to steal food. He said they were nearly starved.
Because he couldn’t read road signs, he’d remember landmarks and locations, which he calls “the Indian way.”
“It was hard walking around with no food in your belly.”
Later in life, Silver taught himself to read and write. Before his eyesight deteriorated, he used to sit and read the newspaper every day after work, he says proudly.
After a year of hardship at Port Alberni, he was shipped back to the mainland with two of his first cousins. But his happiness at being reunited with his parents was mixed with terrible grief. “Coming home, I asked the principal, ‘where’s my brother, isn’t he
His father worked at the local Clayburn brick-making plant with 180 other native and white workers. When he turned 15 he also got a job and worked there for 54 cents an
His grandfather said the rivers are “blood vessels across the body of Mother Earth,” and to protect the rivers as he would his own body. Much has changed in the years since Silver was a child listening to his elders. Now he’s invited by organizations and government to travel and speak about his culture and people. Silver says the voice of his people, once lost, has been restored. He will be among an expected 5,000 people attending the upcoming Elder’s Gathering at the Abbotsford Tradex on July 12. The gathering has been held every July in B.C. since the first one in Mission in 1977. Silver’s wife, Millie, is co-chair of the event and was an integral part of winning the bid to have the gathering return to the Abbotsford area. Adrian MACNAIR Abbotsford News 35th Annual BC Elders Gathering
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Past Kings & Queens YEAR
KING & QUEEN
NATION
HOST
1982
Gus Raphael Sophie (Dolly) Joe
Carrier Stó:lo
Prince George
1983
Elwood Modeste Evangeline Pete
Cowichan Stó:lo
Musquem
Cowichan
Cowichan Tribes
1984
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1985
Andy Commodore Tress Commodore
Stó:lo
Coqualeetza
1986
Rufus McDames Phylis McDames
Kitsumkalum
Terrace
1987
Leo Williams Marilyn Michel
Kootenay
Columbia Lake
1988
Allan Dick Agnes Dick
Nuu Chah Nulth Friendship Centre
Port Alberni
1989
Robert Moore Mercey Moore
Nisga’a Canyon City
Gitwinksihlkw Health
1990
Simon Baker Mabel C. Lewis
Squamish
Squamish Band
1991
William (Bill) Hunt
Kwakwaka’wakw
Alert Bay
1992
Alvin Leask Joyce Leask
Tsimshian Friendship House
Prince Rupert
1993
Ben Canute Sally Grey
Cowichan
Cowichan Tribes
1994
William Hunt Hazel Alfred
Kwakiutl
Fort Rupert
1995
Archie Blankinship Edna Blankinship
Nlaka’pamx Secwepemc
Scw’exmx (Nicola Valley) Scw’exmx (Nicola Valley)
1996
Gabe Bartleman Lila Sam
Saanich
Brentwood Bay
1997
Joe Pierre Caroline Pierre
Okanagan
Okanagan Penticton
1998
Zaa Louie Veronica Louie
Stellat’en
Carrier Nations
1999
John Seymour Susan Seymour
Secwepemc
Kamloops
2000
Bill Blaney Irene Wydenes
Laichwiltach
Campbell River, Cape Mudge, Comox, Homolco
2001
Wilfred Charlie Ann Lindley
Stó:lo
Coqualeetza, SN, Chehalis, MIFC, Spuzzum
2002
Simon Smith Sr. Teresa Smith
Saanich
Aboriginal Resource Committee
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2003
Ken Harris Margaret Harris
Lawer Mainland (Urban Groups)
Circle of Eagles Lodge Society
2004
Jules Arnouse Angie Wells
Shuswap Nations & Interior Bands
Kamloops
2005
Albert Chingee Veronica (Vera) Seymour
Sekani Carrier
Carrier Sekani Tribal Council
2006
Ben David Grace David
Tia-o-qui-aht Tia-o-qui-aht
Nuu-Chah-Nulth Tribal Council Tseshaht First Nation
2007
George Jacobs Marjorie Natrall
T’naxwtn Lats’mat
Squamish Nation
2008
Leonard Alexcee Mona Alexcee
Ts’msyen Nation
Prince Rupert
2009
Melvin Robinson Rose Robinson
Nisga’a Nation
New Aiyansh
2010
JD Billy Ethel Billy
Secwepemc Nation
Adams Lake
2011
Virginia Peters Johnny Williams
Sts'ailes Scowlitz First Nation
Stó:lo Nation & Coast Salish
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Core Planning Group Millie Silver .............................................................................. Gathering Chair Dianne Garner ............................................................................Alternate Chair Chief Willie Charlie ..................................................................... Spokesperson Chief Frank Malloway .................................................................. Spokesperson Chief Alice Thompson .............................................................. Leq'à:mel Signer Elaine Malloway ..................................................................... Leq'à:mel Signer Lisa Douglas ..................................................................................... Treasurer Barb Leggat............................................................................ Leq'à:mel Signer Virginia Peters ....................................................................................... Queen Johnny Williams .......................................................................................King Chief Bill Rabang .................................................Shxwha:y Committee Member Elly Janik ...........................................................................................FVACFSS Sandra Victor ............................................................Cheam Committee Member Susan Miller .....................................................Tsawwassen Committee Member Peter Lindley..................................................... Coqualeetza Committee Member Chief Otis Jasper .....................................................Soowahlie Leq'à:mel Signer Brad Boyes ................................................................ Sponsorship Coordinator
Event & Sub Coordinators Wendy Ritchie – Registration ........................................Dana Andrews – Alternate Robin Chapman – Aboriginal Healing .......................... Mavis Williams – Alternate Dianne Garner ...........................................................Accommodations & Billets Julie Malloway .............................................................................Arts & Crafts Leslie Schroeder/Tracey Steere – Information Booths............. Chris Kelly – Alternate Ernie Victor – Fundraising/Raffles ..................................... Shane John – Alternate Helen Joe – Giveaways ...............................................Lenny Herrling – Alternate Laura Lee Kelly/Lenny Herrling – Volunteers .................... Dawn Charlie – Alternate Dianne Garner & Millie Silver ...............................................Promotions/Publicity Laurie Lamson – Elders Rest Area ................................... Gloria Dickie – Alternate Sophie Moreno ....................................................................................First Aid Bev Pitawanakwat...................................................................................Safety Bibiana Norris – Entertainment ...................................... Norma Horne – Alternate Paula Cramner-Underhil ............................................................... Tours/Shuttles Nicola Campbell – Food/Catering/Servers............................. Assistant Coordinator Dianne Garner – VIP Hosting & Protocol ........................................ King & Queen Angie Chapman – Souvenirs ......................................... Evelyn Peters – Alternate Grand Chief Clarence Pennier ...........................................................Coordinator 20
35th Annual BC Elders Gathering
Meals Provided Daily in the Dining Hall 7:00 am - 9:00 am Breakfast 11:30 am - 1:30 pm Lunch 4:30 pm - 6:30 pm Dinner
Day 1 – Tuesday July 12, 2011 9:30 am
Opening Ceremonies Stó:lo Coast Salish Welcome Song Stó:lo Shxweli Opening Prayer Welcome Comments: Introduction of Nations
11:30 am
Introduction of Dignitaries His Honour, The Honourable Steven L. Point Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia Elders, Mayors, MLA's, Chiefs
12:00 pm
Fashion Show - LaRock Dezigns
1:00 pm
Keynote Speaker: "Xwelí:xweltel" The Honourable Steven Point, Lieutenant Governor
2:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Stó:lo Culture & Protocol Sharing "Chaquawet" Chief Willie Charlie
5:00 pm
Fashion Show: Crystal Prevost
6:00 pm
Keynote Speaker: Tom Sampson, Tsartlip
7:30 pm to 9:30 pm
Elders Entertainment: Patsy Cline
All guests seated in the Main Hall. Opening Ceremonies according to Stó:lo Protocol
Dining Hall
Main Hall Dining Hall Main Hall
Day 2 – Wednesday July 13, 2011 9:00 am
Introduction of new Nations Acknowledgements: Sponsors Bidding Opens for 2012 36th Annual BC Elders Gathering
9:30 am
Keynote Speaker: "Shoshqelwet" Her Honour Mrs. Gwendolyn Point
11:00 am
Visiting Nations: Cultural Performances
12:00 pm
Fashion Show: Maxine Prevost
1:00 pm
Workshop: Fitness & Energizer Dr. Rosalin Miles, Lytton First Nation
1:30 pm
Workshop: eHealth University of British Columbia
2:15 pm
Randy Chillihitzia, Okanagan Musician
3:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Dining Hall
Main Hall
Bids for the 2012 Gathering
5:00 pm
Fashion Show: Linda Kay Peters
6:00 pm
Keynote Speaker: Remona Allison, Okanagan Elder
7:00 pm
Announcement: Host of the 2012 36th Annual BC Elders Gathering
7:30 pm to 9:30 pm
Main Hall
Dining Hall
Main Hall
Elders Dance & Social: Whyte Feather Day 3 – Thursday July 14, 2011
9:00 am
9:30 am 11:00 am
Sts'ailes Staxwelh Closing Remarks: "Quahonn" King Johnny Williams, "Siyamex" Queen Virginia Peters, Final Message from Chair "Quetosiya" Elder Millie Silver
Main Hall
Covering & Passing of the Crowns to the Future King & Queen, Closing Ceremony, Giveaway & Celebration Song
35th Annual BC Elders Gathering
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Brad Boyes – Born June 11, 1952
Thank You to our Sponsors The focus of the elders is to work to provide for the future generations of first nations people. This can be made possible in partnering with others to help achieve their goal. Development goes beyond direct economical benefits to also honour the ancestors through respecting the traditions, language and culture. Protecting Mother Earth through sustainability at every step is at the cornerstone of all development to ensure for future generations until the sun no longer shines. On behalf of the entire 35th Annual Elders Gathering Core Planning Committee and all the elders of our Province, we thank you with warm hearts for the support our event sponsor partners are providing to us. We wish to invite all our sponsors to stay the course with elders gatherings for years to come and look forward to working with each and every one of you in developing our future together for the benefit of all. Our theme, “Qepothet ye Mestiyexw - Bringing People Together” will bring businesses and our elders together, providing a wonderful opportunity to better understand the traditions and cultures of Native People . The single most important key in businesses developing opportunities with First Nations is relationship. It is vital that business people come to learn who they are dealing with and the context of how to move forward. To do this a positive relationship needs to be developed and grown. Often, this means spending time to create a comfort zone so that opportunities can be identified, nurtured and grown. For a meaningful relationship to be established, these opportunities cannot proceed more quickly than First Nations feel acceptable. Building such a relationship with businesses will help to enlighten them of the complexities of First Nation politics, leadership, communications, sustainability & environmental responsibilities, protocols and capacity. Patience on behalf of business will lead to deep lasting partnerships and will work to bring certainty to future projects that will be of benefit for all the people of our province based on sustainability, environmental responsibilities in addition to direct economic benefit.
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35th Annual BC Elders Gathering
Married for 37 years to his life partner Ellen Boyes. Ellen and Brad have been active in the community for decades. Ellen currently sits as the Chair of the Women’s Resource Society of the Fraser Valley. Ellen and Brad have three wonderful children Adam, David and Shelley bringing five precious grandchildren into their lives with Jaidlynn, Cora, Paige, Ellie and Parker. Brad has almost 40 years of experience in design, construction, and project management in the electrical and construction Industry. Brad currently holds the position as Electrical Manager for British Columbia and the Yukon for AECOM, a global leader in multiple services. Brad has sat as a member of numerous community and event teams and committees over a number of decades. Just a few project teams that Brad has been a member of include: Co-Chair BC Heart Foundation, Sponsorship Chair Canadian Figure Skating Championships, Interim Chair Abbotsford Regional Justice Centre Committee, CoChair Abbotsford International Bantam Hockey Tournament, Chair Mr. Hockey World Bantam Hockey Tournament, University of the Fraser Valley Foundation Board, Director MSA Hospital Board, Director Abbotsford Community Health Council, Director Fraser Valley Regional Health Board, Sponsor Partnership Chair 35th Annual BC Elders Gathering, Councillor District of Abbotsford, Member of the Abbotsford Matsqui Amalgamation Committee, Councillor for the City of Abbotsford, Director Fraser Valley Regional District Board, Director of the Abbotsford Mission Water Board and multiple other boards which we will leave for another day. Brad received the outstanding academic achievement award upon completing his electrical training at BCIT. As a former councillor for both the district and the city of Abbotsford and recipient of multiple Paul Harris Fellow Awards from Rotary International, he has been recognized by the local and international professional and business community for his commitment to excellence and dedication to service. Brad brings real solutions to all project teams he works with. His common sense, team approach, commitment, and dedication to detail ensures the highest level of project success at work and in his community. His work experience and expertise cover the full spectrum of the electrical industry, ranging from mega project construction to satisfying client needs on small projects. He is committed to excellence in quality and delivery of service to every project or community service team he works with.
35th Elders Gathering Host Sponsor Partners
The Observer A g as s iz Y Harr is on
35th Elders Gathering Sponsor Partners
Donors School District #33, Tzeachten First Nation, Elder Marge Kelly, Global Convention Services Ltd., Siuave Yoyes 35th Annual BC Elders Gathering
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35th Annual BC Elders Gathering Special Thanks On behalf of King Johnny Williams, Queen Virginia Peters, Chair Millie Silver, Elder Ray Silver and the entire 35th Annual BC Elders Gathering committee, we wish to thank Dianne Garner for the outstanding dedication, leadership and commitment, she has provided for the 35th Annual BC Elders Gathering. Dianne has demonstrated to us all that she truly follows the rules of the seven laws of life. Her leadership skills, work ethic and dedication coupled with her friendly nature, high energy and previous experiences have guided us along each step of the journey in planning the 35th Annual BC Elders Gathering. Thank you Dianne!