We want to pass on sincere thanks from our Penelakut neighbours for the support shown by Thetis Islanders for the Aug 2 Memorial Walk in Chemainus, as well as the two healing sessions on Penelakut on July 28 and Aug 4 for residential school survivors and those suffering inter-generational trauma as a result of residential schools.
The turnout and positive energy for the Aug 2 March was nothing short of incredible and very moving for all who participated - see photos by Don Bodger in the Chemainus Valley Courier if you missed it and want a glimpse of the sea of supporters. It was extremely well-organized and facilitated by Penelakut members and was surely a record number for any public gathering in Chemainus.
We reached out to our Thetis community by e-spokes a couple weeks ago to invite financial contributions to support costs of the two healing sessions. We received a very generous response that more than met the need for travel funding requests of participating residential school survivors. We were also asked to organize and provide nourishing food and drinks and work directly with the caterer to feed over 60 people who attended the Aug 4th session. Our contributions were affectionately described by Penelakut organizers as "soul food provided by Thetis Island." The food spread was magnificent and greatly appreciated by participants.
None of the extra food went to waste. Lunch trays were taken to the archeologists and diggers who were out on the land doing the ground penetrating radar work. Snack trays went to an archery session for Penelakut youth that was being held that evening over dinner time. And many participants were able to take some goodies home with them, which was wonderful as some had a long wait for the ferry. As we sort out the last of the costs, if we have any extra funds, they will be sent as a donation to the Band office to support healing for women and girls on Penelakut as this was the theme of the healing session on Aug 4.
A lot of quiet helping hands made all of this possible. In the spirit of humility, we will not name everyone involved. We feel our whole community contributed directly or indirectly in supporting our neighbours on Penelakut, whether through donations or willingness to donate: money, baked treats, produce, manual labour, cold storage facilities, private boat transportation, kind words, general concern and awareness. All of the "invisible" contributions were encompassed in our physical contributions. We know if there is another request or opportunity, we are well placed to respond again with generosity. Thank you everyone.
Kelly Bannister and Michelle Black
Monday, August 9, 2021 at 9:11PM 