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Snuneymuxw Elders: Yesterday |
"Our Elders say
that the old people are speaking to us through
Elders are important people in our social structure. They are leaders, teachers, guides, counsellors, doctors, judges and spiritual leaders. Elders have more life experience and have acquired knowledge that is helpful to others. They have an especially strong and powerful inner spirit. Being close to an Elder is said to strengthen one's own inner spirit. Elders are kind, helpful and wise but forceful in expression and action. Elders are honoured and respected because they have empathy and a deep compassion and understanding of the problems of others. They have overcome great hardships and use their experience and knowledge to help others realize their inner strength and potential. They advise and guide people through difficult times. They are respected for their wisdom, knowledge and special abilities. They are great teachers and problem solvers and are committed to helping others. Respect for Elders is shown in many different ways. An Elder's needs are taken care of before all others. In an Elder's presence, others are quiet and respectful: respect is demonstrated by never looking an Elder directly in the eye, but rather looking down or to one side. Pointing a finger or raising a voice to an Elder is not permitted, as these are signs of aggression. Below, Elders give a demonstration on traditional wool spinning to Nanaimo public school students at the Snuneymuxw Longhouse. Traditional wool came from white haired wooly dog's hair mixed with goat hair. Items such as rugs, blankets and some clothing were made using this wool.
Below is a photo of a demonstration given by Elders on how to steam clams and fry bread over an open fire at a Gabriola Island workshop held in 1998. Approximately 30 to 40 Snuneymuxw First Nation youth attended this workshop.
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