Semá:th Territory, Abbotsford, BC, August 01, 2023 – In a profound and historic event, the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) along with the Mennonite Historical Society (MHS) extended a formal apology to the Sumas First Nation, marking a significant step towards respect, honor, and reconciliation. The momentous occasion took place on July 24, 2023, at the Sumas First Nation Longhouse, bringing together members of the Mennonite Church from all over Canada, alongside Chief Dalton Silver, Councillor Chris Silver, Councillor Troy Ganzeveld, and several members of Sumas First Nation.
The gathering commenced with an atmosphere of unity and togetherness as Councillor Chris Silver and Clayton Ritchie, a youth from the Semá:th community opened the evening in a good way with a welcome song and drumming. The resonating beats of the drum echoed through the room, drawing the hearts and minds of all present to a commonplace – “Let’s Emo:t – One Heart, One Mind.”
As the ceremony proceeded, Chief Dalton Silver extended a warm welcome to the members of MCC and MHS, setting the tone for a meaningful dialogue between the two communities.
Councillor Chris Silver also took the opportunity to share teachings and stories that have shaped the Sumas First Nation over generations. He spoke passionately about the significance of the Longhouse, a sacred space for the Semá:th peoples. Contrary to the notion of an “unfinished” floor, Councillor Silver emphasized that the exposed dirt ground within the Longhouse is intentional, symbolizing the profound connection that the Semá:th community has with the earth and their environment; allowing attendees to gain a deeper understanding of Semá:th culture and traditions.
Chief Andrew Victor of Cheam First Nation was also in attendance and graced the gathering with heartfelt regards. He emphasized the importance of this day, highlighting the power of acknowledgment and healing that comes with embracing a spirit of reconciliation.
The event served as an essential bridge between the MCC, MHS, and the Sumas First Nation, acknowledging historical injustices and paving the way for genuine healing and understanding. The formal apology offered by the Mennonite Church represents an act of contrition and respect for the indigenous people of Sumas, recognizing the pain and suffering caused by past actions.
As the evening concluded, the attendees left with hearts filled with hope and a sense of unity. The gathering between the Mennonite Church and the Semá:th community was indeed a remarkable step in the right direction – a step towards healing the wounds of the past and embracing a future built on mutual respect and harmony.
With the foundation of this significant event, both communities now embark on a journey together – one that hopes to honour the past, acknowledge the present and foster a shared commitment to a better future. Through continued dialogue, understanding, and reconciliation efforts, the Mennonite Church and the Sumas First Nation look forward to forging a meaningful relationship for generations to come.
S’ólh Téméxw te íkw’élò. Xólhmet temekw’ stám ít kwelát. This is our land we must look after everything that belongs to us. Sumas First Nation is a robust Indigenous Community located near Abbotsford, BC. Sumas has approximately 350 members and currently resides on a reserve land base of approximately 600 acres.
Let’s Emo:t – One Heart, One Mind
This article is written in collaboration the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) British Columbia.
Media Contact:
Ida Dutt
Communications Officer
media@sumasfirstnation.com
604-996-8523