Following last weeks Teachings Tuesday, our community engaged in impassioned discussion about the events in Tla'amin, what it means to be a good ally, and how folks can exert positive pressure in the face of denialistic stances. These conversations inspired Culturally Committed Mentor, Emily White of Tla'amin, to compose the below writing, which she has titled, 'Allyship in the Face of Adversity'.
Over the last two years, the City of Powell River has been faced with the request to change its namesake away from that which upholds the colonial legacy of an early genocidal architect, Israel Wood Powell.
In the beginning, people reacted to this request in ways that were sporadic and unorganized. Some reactions were positive and supportive, while others were negative and harmful. Over the last two years, certain individuals have been gathering to promote harmful anti-Indigenous rhetoric. These individuals are few and far between, but they have been busy wasting their days promoting this colonial narrative, which continues to reaffirm their ignorance.
But what I really want to discuss is the beautiful community that has blossomed through this adversity. There is great importance in showing up during times when Indigenous people and their lived histories are under attack. Living through this process has been one of the hardest things I have ever done in my life. However, as a result of this process, a large, compassionate community of allies and relatives has come together in the face of adversity, striving to uphold and protect Tla’amin’s sovereignty, lived experiences, and oral histories.
I have never felt as much love and care from this community as I have in the last two years. I have met so many people who have become my family, who time and time again show up for me, show me endless love, and provide endless encouragement. They continue to stand up in solidarity with Tla’amin and stand up to the colonial violence presented by the vocal minority, which is encouraged by some members of the city council.
ʔaʔǰɩnxʷegəs – a good relationship with someone. Collectively, we, the true allies and Tla’amin, are upholding our traditional ways of being. This fundamental way of being in relationship is key to reconciliACTION, moving forward in a good way with each other to build a positive foundation for the generations to come.
Allyship is not something one can self-proclaim. It is something you earn. Just like reconciliation, it is a way of living, not just one-off actions. Actively working to dismantle colonial systems is hard work, but when you show up to do that work and make those efforts to be in a relationship with our communities, you are making a difference.
Be brave, be courageous, and be leaders in change.
č̓ɛč̓ɛhaθɛč̓,
Emily
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