by Stephanie San, Chris Wilson

On a warm September day at Killarney Community Centre, 100+ SVNH staff gather to awaken their drums at the annual SVNH All-Nations Event in commemoration of National Day of Truth & Reconciliation.

The drums, created under the guidance of Indigenous Knowledge Keeper Niis Miou Tgac (Travis Angus), were stretched, shaped and woven by the staff leading up to the event. Formed of attentively lengthened rawhide and arched cedar circles, the drums were earnestly primed to rise from their sleep.

As the staff gathered in a sea of orange textiles, the Nisyok Boys (Cyprian, Nathanial, & Draysen) stood at the head of the pack, felted feet planted and decorated drums ready in hand.

The cedar garnished drums and unbending boys bellowed as rhythmic beats followed steady hands, echoing through the large gymnasium. The trio beat in harmony, a fruition spun by generations of practice, uniformity and kinship. The staff observed in awe, absorbing the beating heart before them. As the hymn progressed, the boys lifted their drums to the sky and grounded them low to the earth – a story of dance and song simultaneously.

Beckoning the staff to adopt their beats, the sea thundered in reply.

Rows of roaring drums filled the space, awakening the instruments from their rest. The staff were attentive to their north, east, west and south directions, reflecting the cadence of their counterparts. Mind. Body. Sprit. Heart. All four harmonized through syncopation, extending beyond their navigation as the sea pulsed in unison. A contagious buzz in the air erupted as members sang, expanding their ribcages, medicine pouches filled with sacred sage crafted by volunteer youth resting on their hearts. The floor vibrated as the song unfolded, peaking and finding ground in a cycle of swells and flows.

The hymn reached its destination and with a wave of Travis’ command, the drums halted in harmony. Restrained silence. A hum resting in the air. The staff raised their palms in sincere gratitude, a chorus of euphoric chatter following them to their seats.

As the day progressed, vibrant presentations of varying nations emerged, intertwining song, dance, story and heart. Community gathered at full tables, bellies full of salmon, bannock & laughter, reflections of the day still beating in their hearts.

“It is just what my soul needed.” Chris Wilson, Ungwa-Kasu from X̄á’isla Haisla Nation and newly appointed SVNH Indigenous Community Programmer.

“You may not be aware but I just joined SVNH after 16 years of a strict Security job that did not permit creative energy to flow (which I am learning is the opposite of the SVNH). Thank you for allowing me to be myself and flourish in our community.”