In the Tsawwassen First Nation, the return of a sacred artifact marked a significant moment in addressing historical injustices. Members of the nation gathered for a homecoming ceremony to welcome Sqəmáθia, a rock sculpture representing a female ancestor. The sculpture, previously housed at the Canadian Museum of History, was repatriated back to the community.
Tia Williams, the nation’s archaeology coordinator, described the emotional journey that led to the return of Sqəmáθia, emphasizing that it had been a long-standing endeavor spanning generations. The figurine, originally misidentified as a hump-backed man, was recognized by Indigenous people for its true representation as a female ancestor with a clam basket on her back.
During a two-hour longhouse ceremony, nation members expressed their sentiments about the repatriation, with Kim Baird, the chief administrative officer, describing the event as triumphant. The sculpture, uncovered in the early 20th century in the Tsawwassen region, was initially given to the museum by local chief Harry Joe in the 1920s. Baird, Joe’s great-granddaughter, highlighted that the exchange was made with the expectation of addressing the nation’s land claim, a promise unfulfilled at the time.
However, through subsequent generations, the Tsawwassen First Nation successfully negotiated a treaty and reclaimed the sacred object. The Canadian Museum of History acknowledged its commitment to reconciliation and expressed pride in its collaboration with Indigenous partners, emphasizing its support for cultural heritage and repatriation efforts.
Sharon Fortney, a curator at the Museum of Vancouver, provided insights into the repatriation process, noting the significance of items collected before 1970 due to historical circumstances. Reflecting on her great-grandfather’s unfulfilled aspirations, Baird expressed satisfaction in seeing Sqəmáθia returned to the nation.
The repatriation of Sqəmáθia symbolizes a step towards reconciliation and honoring Indigenous heritage, underscoring the importance of acknowledging and rectifying past injustices.
