Community Learning Day: Guest Speaker Bradley Dick

On December 10th, the 2016/2017 cohort attended a Community Learning Day at the Songhees Wellness Centre. We had a two-day session planned (December 9-10) but Mother Nature intervened with snow on December 9, so we had to postpone that day's events into January. Having cleared the ice and found the winter gloves, our cohort convened on December 10 with lots of energy and stories about the weather adventures.

The day started out with several tips to source funding for the Community Action Projects that are in development by the 2016/2017 cohort. One participant Maria, stated that "Susan Low provided a major focus on developing good relationships and understanding with community partners." She found that the Community Learning Day was a very inspirational and informative day! The rest of the day consisted of immersive experience that involved learning about the history, cultural practices and challenges of the Coast Salish people. 

Photo: Songhees Welcome Centre (Interior)

Our lovely Guest Speaker, Bradley Dick, discussed his cultural background, the significance of the Songhees presence on their traditional territory as well as his own personal family stories. Bradley provided a strong historical foundation for our participants by explaining the first contact by settlers in the area and how this drastically impacted the lifestyle of Coast Salish peoples in this region. 

Maria was excited to learn the knowledge shared by Bradley Dick that has been transferred to him by his elders. She found that "...he formed a powerful energy circle which brought reflection for openness and gratefulness."

Guest Speaker: Bradley Dick (Songhees Nation Member)

We look forward to our next Community Learning Days on January 20th & 21st at the Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Be sure to check back on our blog for future updates!