Hereditary chiefs and representatives from the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw First Nation have announced their plans to reclaim 17 Hamatsa masks and other regalia and treasures currently held by the Royal B.C. Museum. The chiefs made a statement on Friday, stating their intention to repatriate their kikasu, or treasure boxes, in anticipation of the opening of their new bighouse in the summer. The repatriation is expected to be celebrated with a week-long potlatch, where the items will be honored in dance and ceremony for the first time in over six decades.
Hereditary Chief Henry Seaweed, an expert on Hamatsa dances and masks, expressed the significance of the masks to their culture. He stated that each mask carries a story, song, and dance, and it is their responsibility to bring them home to teach their children their traditions. The repatriation negotiations with the museum began in 2018, and while the 17 masks are a priority, there are hopes to repatriate more items in the future.
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Colleen Hemphill, Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw’s chief negotiator, emphasized the cultural revival and renaissance happening within their community. She stated that the repatriation celebration will be the largest potlatch the community has ever held, and it marks an important moment for the people to reconnect with their ancient pieces. Negotiations with the museum have been positive, and there are expectations that the other items they desire to reclaim will be returned without issue.
The Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw have a history of forced relocation and traumatic experiences, but in recent years, they have been working towards cultural and economic self-sufficiency. The opening of the Kwa’lilas Hotel and the ongoing effort to reclaim their child-welfare services demonstrate their commitment to reclaiming their heritage.
The repatriated items, including the Hamatsa masks, will be stored in a carving shed on the construction site of their new bighouse until a permanent display is decided upon. Elders and hereditary chiefs express relief and happiness knowing that the masks will be returned to the community and will be available for use in ceremonies and cultural events once again. The Royal B.C. Museum is honored to be working with the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw on the return of their belongings and is dedicated to building strong relationships with First Nation communities.
