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Chilliwack Chamber launches 3-part series on Indigenous culture, language

Honouring Land and Language is a workshop series on Indigenous culture in downtown Chilliwack
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A new workshop series on Indigenous language and culture will be held at the Chilliwack Chamber of Commerce office Feb. 13, 20 and 27, 2025. (Jennifer Feinberg/ Chilliwack Progress file)

The Chilliwack Chamber of Commerce is offering a new three-part workshop series entitled Honouring Land and Language.

The Thursday morning workshops for chamber members and non members will run Feb. 13, 20, and 27, at the chamber office near Five Corners, from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

"Join us for a transformative three-part workshop series designed to deepen your connection to Indigenous culture and language," according to the announcement from the Chilliwack Chamber of Commerce.

The first session focuses on land acknowledgements, while the second is on the basics of Halq'eméylem, while the third is a recap to strengthen new skills.
 
Here are the session details:

Session 1 - Create Your Own Land Acknowledgement

    The importance of land acknowledgements and when they are appropriate
    Who should offer a land acknowledgement and the best ways to do so
    The key elements of a strong land acknowledgement;
    How to make your land acknowledgement genuine,
    An introduction to the basics of the Halq'eméylem language, with a focus on phrases for self-introduction (to be expanded upon in session 2)

Session 2 - Learning Halq'eméylem Language Basics

This session will introduce the foundational elements of the Halq'eméylem language, with key vocabulary and phrases.

    How to introduce yourself in Halq'eméylem
    Pronouncing the names of local nations and territories
    Common trail names and simple greetings: hello, goodbye, thank you, and you’re welcome
    Additional tips for learning the language and next steps for continued practice

Session 3 - Recap & Practice Session

    In the final session, it's time to review and practice what has been learned.

The Honouring Land and Language series is $100 for members, $150 for future members, for details contact joanne@chilliwackchamber.com.

 



Jennifer Feinberg

About the Author: Jennifer Feinberg

I have been a Chilliwack Progress reporter for 20+ years, covering city hall, Indigenous, business, and climate change stories.
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