The Heiltsuk nation of just 1,600 people have their homeland in central-coastal British Columbia, Canada. They have been reaching out these past few years to share their knowledge of self-sufficiency. That’s because they believe the ancestral knowledge in their Elders’ memories could turn the tide of global warming. However, they have reverted to COVID self-sufficiency in Great Bear Country while the epidemic lasts.
Memories Guide COVID Self-Sufficiency in Great Bear Country
The Heiltsuk are traditionally inward-looking and deeply protective of their culture. In olden days, they posted watchmen outside their villages to watch for strangers. This was because they believed they were custodians of the land and water. And it was their duty to conserve the landscape and ensure a steady supply of food.
However, since the COVID-19 outbreak the Heiltsuk have gone back into community lock down. But their drive for COVID self-sufficiency in Great Bear Country is not unique according to Diani Selkirk of BBC Canada. Other indigenous groups in Australia, Argentina, Brazil, Kenya, and United States believe we are in this for the long haul. And they must ensure their own survival.
We Know This Is Not Over and It’s Going To Be a Few Years
So says Marilyn Slett, chief councilor of the Heiltsuk Tribal Council. The thought of COVID-19 entering her territory and destroying the ancestral memories of the Elders terrifies her. Our laws are in our minds and voices, she explains. And we only have 30 Elders fluent in our Hailhzaqvla language.
Her Council has decided to embrace COVID style self-sufficiency in Great Bear Country. They have decided this is not the right time to reach out to other nations hell-bent on global warming.
Instead, they have pulled up the virtual bridges and posted people at all entry points to their territory. They have to, because of inadequate health care in isolated villages. That’s compared to some logging companies still hoping to desecrate their Great Bear Forest.
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Preview Image: Lake in Great Bear Forest
