Following the River

In 1984, Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations were thriving despite generations of colonial oppression. More than half the community spoke their traditional language fluently and cultural practices such as canoe carving remained an active artform.

 That same year, with the support of the Haida Gwaii people, the Nation declared Meares Island a Tribal Park and successfully resisted industrial logging after dealing with months-long blockades. Things were looking bright, but 44 years later, only two fluent speakers and one master canoe carver remain. Additionally, the relationship between the two nations has faltered due to the Meares Island resistance never being formally acknowledged according to Tla-o-qui-aht teachings.

To right these wrongs and revitalize Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation culture, the Tla-o-qui-aht Language Keepers Society is introducing its new initiative focused on healing through canoe-making, language, and inter-Nation relationships. The program will provide up to six Indigenous canoe apprentices mentorship by the Nation’s master canoe carver, fluent speakers, and Elders. Throughout the carving process, apprentices will learn specialized language and cultural knowledge connected to harvesting cedar, shaping the canoe, balancing the hull, and preparing it for the water. The completed canoe will be gifted to the people of Haida Gwaii during a public celebration marking the anniversary of the Meares Island Tribal Park Declaration. This will serve as an expression of gratitude, respect, and the enduring relationship between the two Nations. 

The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) is contributing funding to support the revitalization of the Tla-o-qui-aht language, traditional knowledge, and cultural practices. The project strengthens intergenerational learning while reaffirming Indigenous governance, land stewardship, and relationships between Nations. 

Diocese of Victoria