I was privileged to spend time at the First Peoples House at UVic today and be given a guided tour by Indigenous Education Advisor/coordinator Nick Claxton who is a very knowledgeable local Salish man. http://www.uvic.ca/services/indigenous/house/
This amazing building is in the centre of the university grounds and is a central place for support for Indigenous students at the Uni. It is such a special place and gives you a feeling of peace as you enter. The two cedar Welcome Posts stand on both sides of the doors.
First Peoples House was opened in 2010 and is in the centre of the university and provides support to all Indigenous students. The two cedar Welcome Posts welcome people to the centre. On the left of
the door is Traditional Coast Salish Mother/Wife, on the right of the door is
the Traditional Coast Salish Man. Both are carved in red cedar by Doug LaFortune,
Coast Salish, 2009. The hands up, palms facing the body is a welcome sign. The
house is built on principles of the traditional long house construction. Cedar
is an important cultural wood. The Meeting Hall is central to construction. Traditionally
built with seating on 4 sides, an earth floor and two fire pits. This halls as seating
on two sides, with poles representing the 4 bands from the island. The fire is
enclosed in a glass triangle pyramid. The cedar doors to long house are carved
with symbols for salmon and eagle.
Frogs posts represent coming signify the seasonal change the new life
after winter. The frogs are coming out of their winter hibernation in the mud.
It has such a peaceful feeling as soon as you step into the building.
The building is based on traditional long house design an has won environmental
awards. Very visual representation of people and culture and a restorative
place for all indigenous students.
There is the Central hall, along the side is an elders room, offices,
classrooms and student lounge. Classrooms are in a circle for learning.
Different elders come to the office each day for support.
I sat inside and watched the leaves falling - it was very calming.
I
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