At a recent lunch held in Port Alberni, the Uchucklesaht Tribe showcased the results of a commitment made four years ago to renew the traditions and culture of the people.
The Human Services Department with the Uchucklesaht Tribe Government provided the planning and coordination of cultural programs, and assistance in teaching was provided by Geraldine Tom.
Over the past two years, participants in the Uchucklesaht Cultural Program learned a long list of skills. They’ve made their own drums, learned to gather and prepare cedar to weave a variety of items, including mats, bracelets and hats, made frames for purses, and learned to bead.
Some have even done the very fine three-corner grass weaving to create little baskets. They’ve collected medicines, made paddles, and sewed shawls. And with each skill learned, said singer Jason Titian, they had grown wings and awakened pride.
After some traditional songs were sung, each of the participants was asked to show some of the items they had made. Edgar, an enthusiastic and encouraging teacher, said many had begun the program saying ‘I can’t’ but completed the program with renewed skills and a commitment to keep learning.
The results of the program were an overwhelming revitalization of culture in many. Chief Charlie Cootes was genuinely impressed, he shared. Others were emotional at the growth of the people taking part and that culture was being brought back into the open.
“We haven’t lost it,” Titian said.
With the awakening of traditional and cultural knowledge, many of the citizens have displayed more confidence in their abilities. Many have gone out on their own in different areas, be it singing, drumming, dancing and cedar work or language classes.
Many of the reawakened learners have expressed that they are interested in providing teachings to other citizens. This will be a new direction for cultural learning for the Tribe where citizens can now share with confidence and pride in their own skills.
Uchucklesaht Tribe Government looks with pride and anticipation to the future learning of culture for their citizens.
