In October, the CLBC Terrace office hosted a gathering to honour space and people while also acknowledging the lands that the organization serves.
CLBC’s Terrace office is located on the unceded ancestral territories of the Tsimshian Nation, specifically the overlapping territories of Kitselas and Kitsumkalum. These Nations have been the caretakers of the land since time immemorial.
CLBC appreciated the guidance of Simogyet Wii Neas Hi Waxs Ken McDames Sr. (Kitselas First Nation) through the event. He shared the history of these territories and the Tsimshian teachings of respect, reciprocity, and protocol.
Drew Pawlowski, Service Delivery Manager, with artists and Elder Ken
Elder Ken spent the day with staff, CLBC service providers, and self advocates, offering his time and sharing his stories. Participants also shared a traditional feast-style lunch prepared by the Kitselas youth. The young people are active in the community and are currently fundraising to attend the Junior All Native Basketball Tournament in Langley over spring break 2026.
The gathering featured the art of Stan Bevan (Kitselas), an Order of BC recipient celebrated for his cultural leadership and mastery as a carver. Stan’s art is displayed around the world and throughout the City of Terrace.
Tsimshian people mentor and hold space for their up-and-coming leaders by teaching, guiding and sharing platforms with them. Stan’s mentorship was evident as he held space for his apprentice, Savannah Medeiros (Kitsumkalum).
CLBC’s Terrace office features Indigenous art so that individuals who are eligible for services as well as their families feel welcome and see themselves reflected. Non-Indigenous visitors also have an opportunity to learn about the artwork, the artists, and the shared history of the territory.