Coast Salish Ceremonies by Wendy Ritchie

This handbook includes suggested guidelines for many types of ceremonies. Some or all aspects may be included. A seasoned floor coordinator along with the M.C. are great assets to a ceremony. They will give guidance based on your needs. Ceremonies can be intimate or extravagant depending on what the family desires. Nothing is set in stone, our ancestors were very humble and simple, adopted customs have emerged from intermarriages and are flexible in terms of proper protocols. All the following information is subject to change. This guidebook provides basic best practices for common ceremonies that happen within the Salish territory. It’s common practices to change from nation to Nation, therefore some information maybe altered to meet your needs. Consult your local knowledge keepers and Elders for guidance to verify your specific ceremonial needs and alter to fit you perfect ceremony. Keep in mind that these practices have been introduced within the last 40 years, long ago a few people would gather, and the Elder would stand up and state their business. Gathering would be for a few days as travelling was by foot or canoe and there were no short visits. Ceremonies can be small and intimate or large and expensive. It’s entirely up to the hosting family.

Mekw’tel Sq’eq6: All My Relations – Wendy Ritchie

34 pages