In a ceremony held on the beach at Esowista Aug. 10, the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation honoured their newest babies and their parents.
The parents and the little ones were introduced to the community. Then Thlyik Carol Frank wrapped the babies in shawls that she had made.
See our photos here: http://www.hashilthsa.com/gallery/tla-o-qui-aht-baby-honoring-aug-10-2016
Cedar headbands were placed upon the babies’ heads by Gail Hayes. The cedar bands were made by community members Maria Clark, Naomi Seitcher, Tammy Dorward, Melanie Touchie and Carol.
Speaking in his Nuu-chah-nulth language, elder Barney Williams said he felt good about welcoming the newborns, saying it lifted his spirits.
Francis Frank said he was really proud of the parents.
“I want to encourage you to raise these beautiful children in a very respectful and responsible way. We know that they are going to be beautiful children.”
The baby welcome was part of a week-long celebration called Tla-o-qui-aht Days, the theme of which was bringing families together, said Francis.
He told the parents the community wished them all the best into the future. “You are playing an important role of keeping our blood lineage alive and well, and we encourage you to look after your loved ones and to look after each other.”
He closed the ceremony by thanking all who witnessed.
Carol Frank told Ha-Shilth-Sa she is planning another baby honoring in the fall for those parents who were unable to attend.
Babies honored and their parents
Tyrell: parents are Britanni and Andrew
Christina: parents are Carl Jr and Deanna
Anna: parents are Kim and Wayne
Jette: parents are Lacey and Randall Sr.
Daniel: mother is Shay
Ryan: parents are Lisa and Chris
Destiny/Danny: parents are Nadine and Glenn
Isaac: parents are Neleeta and Byron
Lawrence: parents are DeeDee and Derek
Micha: parents are Evelyn and Matthew
Caiden: parents are Gaylene and Nathan
Lance: parents are Elizabeth and Mike
Parker: parents are Lynea and Joe Bob
