KIRA’S EXPERIENCE IN THE FIELD

Written by Kira Barwich, Research Coordinator
June 2017

Jude and I were recently up in the North Island for fieldwork. Our time there coincided with celebrations for Indigenous Peoples Day and we were able to join the community of Port Hardy and the surrounding area for some of the celebrations. Indigenous Peoples Day was celebrated nation-wide on June 21st to celebrate the heritage, diverse culture and outstanding achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Metis.

The rain cleared shortly after the celebrations began making the bright blue sky, deep blue sea, and vivid colors of those in attendance a striking backdrop for the celebrations. Following the unveiling ceremony for the Ǥa̱lǥa̱poła murals, several of the elders spoke on the occasion and the Kwakiutl, Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw and Quatsino Nations hosted performances of traditional music and dance . Several of the performances encouraged participation so we all had the chance to join in the dance circle and sway to the beat. Around lunchtime, we then made our way over to a feast held at the Kwakiutl Big House in Fort Rupert where there was delicious seafood chowder and fresh bannock a few of the many dishes served in abundance!