In a unique partnership between Tla’amin (Sliammon) First Nation, School District 47 and the RCMP, Tla’amin youth were given the opportunity to combine participation in Pulling Together with earning academic credit for graduation. Under the supervision of district counsellor Gerry Brach, seven students in grades 10, 11 and 12 took part in this culturally diverse and enriching opportunity that focused on youth.
In traditional times the canoe was an important form of transportation for Coast Salish people who travelled along BC’s marine highway. Today the canoe has a different but still significant role in passing down traditional ways and teachings to many Tla’amin people. For some, the canoe has sparked a cultural renaissance with the learning of canoe protocols and Tla’amin teachings.
Students who participated in Pulling Together gained new skills and abilities through hands-on experiences. The integration of traditional skills gave youth the benefit of a sound cultural foundation to build their emotional and spiritual well-being. Many of the stories shared by youth participants demonstrated an increase in self-esteem and self-confidence, which was also witnessed by their local community through their behaviour and excitement about their involvement in the canoe journey.
Ryan Pielle, a grade 11 student at Brooks Secondary School, described the experience as amazing. “The highlight for me was the competition song,” he said. “It’s a singing competition between guys and girls.” When the canoe families would arrive on the beach, the boys and girls would form two lines, each taking turns singing a verse of a song composed by Drew Blaney, member of the Cheechlem Chi-Chia (Dancing Grandmother) canoe family. “When we started, we’d be standing far apart and at the end we’d get closer and closer. We’d usually lose our voices by the end of it.” When asked who won, Ryan was quick to say the boys, although, he admitted, there wasn’t usually a judge, just personal opinion.
When asked if he would participate again, Ryan enthusiastically said definitely and that getting academic credits was a plus. “I had already decided to go, but when I found out I could get credit I thought ‘that’s cool.’” Ryan will return to Brooks in the fall.
