In part two of Healing Traditions Devan Williams, a proud indigenous woman of the Squamish Nation, shares cultural and traditional history and the impact of residential school for the indigenous people of Canada. She asks us to learn the true history of Canada as a first step to creating positive change for the next generations. You are doing just that by listening to ELC's episodes Healing Traditions parts one and two. Thank you.  

If you are so inspired, please take yet another step, by sharing these episodes with others and/or by learning more. You’ll find links for learning and resources in our show notes below and on the ELC Patreon supporters page.

More from Devan:

Ha7lh Skwayel (Good day)
Devan Williams kwi en snas (My name is Devan Williams)
Tina7 chen tl’a Skwxwu7mesh uxwumixw (I am from the Squamish village)
Skwxwu7mesh-ulh (Squamish Nation)
An wenaxws en skwawlen (I am proud of who I am [where I come from) 

I was told to always remember who I am, where I come from; to be a steward of the land and protect Mother Earth.  

I am honoured to have the opportunity to use my voice and share our Indigenous culture, history and stories.  I love giving back to my community and I am always looking for new ways to help create positive change for the next generations.

My previous leadership initiatives that I was a part of as a Indigenous Ambassador include working and volunteering with the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Bid, the Vancouver 2010 Olympics Opening Ceremonies and Reconciliation Canada. As well, I also volunteered on the Squamish Nation Budget and Finance Committee as the Deputy Chair, the Cutting Barriers to Employment and Training Association (CBETA) as a Board Directory, SPIP Suicide Prevention Intervention Post-intervention Committee Member, and the Native Indian Football Association Board Member and Alumni. One of my other passions that I have been involved in is with Minerva BC Learning to Lead where I volunteer as a Den Mother, Mentor and Coach for young girls helping them build and tap into their leadership skills.

I7xw ten sekwitl’ (All my relations)
Chen kwen men tumiyap (Thank you all)

TOPICS:

• Calling on cultural traditions for healing and peace for the lost children and residential school survivors.
• Today’s youth
• Residential schools in Canada
• The Indian Act
• Saving and sharing cultural traditions
• Hope for the future

LINKS:

“Icy water swims a cool trip for many in Squamish” Squamish Chief Article by Jennifer Thuncher 

Nature Entwined Film

Truth and Reconciliations Calls to Action

Indigenous Canada Online Course

ELC Patreon Page

Aisha Edwards

Kaila June

Chris Morita Clancy