I believe we all felt the impact of grief and loss upon hearing about the Tŝilhqox (Chilcotin River) landslide in Tŝilhqot’in territory and how this affects the salmon and the First Nations that rely on the salmon in that area.
Holding Each Other Up
On August 8, 2024, the Tŝilhqot’in National Government asked its members not to harvest salmon this year to protect and preserve the safety and future of salmon in their territory. As Gitga'at, we can relate to the salmon being inextricable from our culture and wellbeing and how harvesting, processing, and eating traditional foods brings everyone together in a good way.
We wanted to reach out to the Tŝilhqot’in Governance and offer support by gifting them salmon from our territory. The Tŝideldel First Nation accepted our offer, and with the support of Gitga'at leadership, Guardians, and the Health Department, we quickly coordinated the harvesting and delivery of salmon to the Tŝideldel First Nation.
Ła lut’axt’ooxga g̱ag̱oodm a goo g̱a̱lksa waalsm, ‘nii g̱a̱n sila da̱x yaawkda 'nüüm. We empathize with what you all are going through, that’s why together we hold each other up. The idea of gifting what we could to Tŝideldel was borne from the intention of Nations uplifting Nations, especially in times of need.
Expressing Gratitude for All Involved
There was no expectation from Gitga'at for compensation for this gesture; however, with the spirit of reciprocity and appreciation, the Tŝideldel First Nation has offered a donation to the Gitga'at Elders program. We are sincerely grateful to the Tŝideldel First Nation for this gesture.
We are also grateful to the Port Edward Harbour Authority for their donation of forklift operation, and to Aero Trading Co. for donating ice to keep the fish safe and preserved on their journey from Gitga'at to Tŝideldel.
Sag̱ayt k'uulm g̱oot. All together, one heart. Our hearts and thoughts are with the Tŝilhqot’in Nations as they continue to navigate taking care of themselves, the salmon, and their Lands in the coming years. We hope the Tŝilhqot’in have a bountiful hunting season to look forward to.
—Written by Megan Basso
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