The Heiltsuk Nation is rejoicing as they welcome back a significant piece of their history – the historic chief’s seat. After being away for over a century, the seat has been returned to its rightful owners in a powerful and emotional ceremony.
The Heiltsuk Nation, located in Bella Bella, British Columbia, has a rich history and culture that is deeply intertwined with their traditional territories. The chief’s seat, also known as the “Gvi’ilas,” is a symbol of leadership and authority within the community. It holds great significance and is considered a sacred object.
The seat was taken from the Heiltsuk Nation in 1893 by a colonial official and has been held in a museum in Scotland ever since. For over a century, the Heiltsuk Nation has been fighting for the return of their sacred object, and their efforts have finally paid off.
The emotional ceremony took place on July 29, 2021, at the Heiltsuk Cultural Education Centre. It was attended by members of the Heiltsuk Nation, as well as government officials and representatives from the National Museums Scotland. The ceremony began with a traditional welcome and prayer, followed by speeches and songs from community members.
Chief Marilyn Slett, the elected leader of the Heiltsuk Nation, expressed her gratitude and joy at the return of the chief’s seat. She stated, “This is a powerful moment for our Nation. The return of the Gvi’ilas represents the resilience and strength of our people and our culture.”
The chief’s seat was officially handed over to the Heiltsuk Nation by Dr. Gordon Rintoul, Director of National Museums Scotland. He acknowledged the significance of the seat and the importance of its return to its rightful owners. He also apologized for the harm caused by its removal and expressed his hope for reconciliation and healing.
The ceremony ended with a traditional feast and celebration, as the Heiltsuk Nation welcomed back their sacred object with open arms. The chief’s seat will now be housed at the Heiltsuk Cultural Education Centre, where it will be cared for and revered by the community.
The return of the chief’s seat is a significant step towards reconciliation and the preservation of Indigenous culture and history. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to repatriate Indigenous artifacts and the importance of respecting and honoring Indigenous communities and their traditions.
The Heiltsuk Nation’s celebration of the return of their historic chief’s seat is a powerful and emotional moment that will be remembered for generations to come. It is a testament to the strength and resilience of the Heiltsuk people and their unwavering determination to reclaim their cultural heritage.
