Celebrating return of the salmon to the Fraser with Spuzzum First Nation

This past Saturday, ORCBC took part in the Spuzzum First Nation’s First Run of Fish Ceremony, which celebrates the return of salmon to Spuzzum First Nation’s traditional territory as they migrate to spawning beds further upstream on the Fraser River and its tributaries.

All were invited to listen to talks given by several Elders and other Band members on the importance of the salmon as a food source and an important feature in their cultural practices and history. The first fish taken from the river is carried to the ceremonial site, much as one might carry a baby, recognizing that it has been provided by “Mother” Earth for the sustenance of the people. It is seen as a sustainable resource that requires a whole ecosystem that is healthy, in balance, and not for the exclusive use of the people, who strive to live in harmony with all other life that they share the land with.

All present were invited to share in a meal that consisted of fresh salmon cooked in the traditional way, over an open wood fire, the fish suspended over the flames on a webbing of alder boughs. Meals could be supplemented with fresh cooked Bannock or fresh salad and fruit. There was excellent singing and drumming, and a traditional Hoop Dance, following the meal.

ORCBC Director, Dave Wharton, who participated in the ceremony, said: “I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Outdoor Recreation Council of BC member, New Pathways to Gold Society [NPTGS], and their Executive Director Don Hauka, for inviting representatives from ORCBC and its member organizations to attend this ceremony. This invitation was extended with the full support of the Spuzzum First Nation, who have permanent representation on the NPTGS Board of Directors. Both myself and ORCBC Executive Director, Louise Pedersen, were warmly welcomed. Chief James Hobart took time out from his clearly busy schedule to extend a personal welcome.”

He continued: “For me, to attend an event such as this is to participate in the processes of Reconciliation.  It is an education in how to conduct myself in gaining an understanding of cultures different from the one I was raised in, and that respect, acceptance, and equality are key values that I must promote every day, irrespective of who I may be speaking with. Reconciliation, for me, is sharing a meal, and knowing that members of the First Nations that have lived on this land much longer than my ancestors, have much to teach me about how to respect the land I live on, and to treat as equals all others who share this land.”

ORCBC would like to thank all the people who worked hard to create such a fabulous community event, and we would like to acknowledge Elder Byron Spinks of Lytton (and an ORCBC board member), who, as part of his closing remarks, thanked everyone present for joining in this celebration.

This article was based on notes from ORCBC board director Dave Wharton, who was present.