Qayqayt Visit: Chief Rhonda Larabee 

Students gathered in the NWSS Library to listen to Chief Larabee speak about the Qayqayt and her experiences in achieving recognition for the Qayqayt First Nation. 

Rhonda Larabee addressing Site Stories students about the history of the Qayqayt in New Westminster. Her story is one of reclaiming identity and discovering your roots. Chief Larabee explains to students why there is not a 'land base' for the Qayqayt and how this has affected their ability to maintain a 'presence; in New Westminster.  She spoke also about the possibility of Chief Ahan being buried on site at NWSS. Through more education students will begin to know and understand the Qayqayt Nation. 

Aboriginal Education Director at SD40, Bertha Landsdowne, and Chief Rhonda Larabee
discuss some of their shared knowledge and experiences. 

Students are asked to come up and join Chief Larabee when they ask a questions; Brett asked about the significance of the Eagle feather and got a first hand lesson. 

Chief Larabee explained that Eagle feathers are gifts, and should be cherished. As we cannot 'harvest' them, they have to come to us, and contain a great deal of wisdom and guidance. 

Tactile experiences and storytelling: two ways of learning that are fundamental in First Nations culture. Site Stories students are learning how to access various ways of knowing through this project.