Story shared by Naomi Schatz

As we approach the summer solstice and the peak of the sun’s strength, we reflect on connection, celebration and gratitude. Over the past few months, we are grateful for the opportunities to connect with and learn from Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) Elders. Deep appreciation for Lats-mat Mary Jane Natrall and Wendy Lockhart Lundberg for joining the Rise team for a learning and sharing circle back in February 2025. Together, we learned about the important work of Xwí7ski (“Let’s Go!”) – a dynamic and active team of Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Elders, Youth and a Cultural Advisor who are working hard to ensure Elders’ voices, wisdom and priorities are heard and responded to.

In recent years, the Xwí7ski team guided and led the Chet wa í7sun “We Pull Together” Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Elder’s Program Plan. It was developed to ensure an inclusive and safe Elders Program for all Elders, including those who are living in care homes and away from home. This Elder-led initiative involved more than 400 Elders aged 55+ and reflects a culturally grounded, participatory process designed to prioritize healing, cultural values, and community involvement. The plan identified priorities related to outreach, connecting Elders and Youth, healing and grief, land-based programming, and Elder-led governance and decision-making.  

We were also thrilled to attend the 2025 Indspire awards ceremony on April 10 with Lats-mat Mary Jane Natrall and Wendy Lockhart Lundberg. It was a beautiful evening together as we gathered to celebrate Indigenous excellence. 

Following this, we were honoured to join Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Elders at Totem Hall in April at their weekly Elders brunch. We learned about the priorities of Elders living in the Squamish Valley, along with the many initiatives and activities they are leading, from land guardianship to intergenerational learning and more. We were reminded of the importance of continuing to nurture relationships over time, and not just limited to a singular meeting.

We thank Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Elders, including Wendy, Lats-mat Mary Jane and the Xwí7ski team, for their enduring work and modelling the importance of building systems that are inclusive, decolonized and equity-driven. We were reminded of the importance of centring community voices in our work and listening to the unique priorities of each community as we build reciprocal relationships. Huy chexw a (thank you).

We have deep gratitude for these budding friendships and look forward to ways we can continue to celebrate and support the priorities voiced by Elders from across Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw.