Respecting the Harvest: Four Years of Connection and Cultural Growth
Now in its fourth year, the Respecting the Harvest program at Kw’umut Lelum continues to provide life-changing opportunities for youth in care. Launched in fall 2021, this initiative was created to help youth reconnect with their cultural identity through traditional seasonal hunting, firearms safety, and the teachings of experienced hunters and community Elders. The program emphasizes cultural protocols, the inherent rights of Indigenous peoples to harvest resources, and hands-on skill-building, all while fostering a deeper connection to the land.
The program’s first intake in October 2021 quickly reached capacity, reflecting strong community interest. The six-week program was initially offered to participants from Kw’umut Lelum’s Canoe Life program, with seasoned hunter Chief John Elliott of Stz’uminus leading the way. Youth spent time at the Chemainus Rod & Gun Club, learning how to safely handle a .22 caliber rifle and practicing their shooting skills. Each participant earned their PAL certification, opening the door to further hunting opportunities.
The enthusiasm of early participants, coupled with their overwhelmingly positive feedback, spurred a demand for expanded program offerings. In response, Kw’umut Lelum secured additional funding from the Kw’umut Lelum Foundation in late 2023, allowing the program to expand year-round.
New Horizons: Spring and Summer Harvests
In January 2024, the program introduced its first-ever Spring and Summer components, focusing on marine and seafood harvesting. This expanded offering opened participation to all Kw’umut Lelum membership youth aged 12 to 19, sparking renewed interest across communities from Qualicum to Malahat.
Participants in the inaugural Spring/Summer program learned boating safety, how to read tide tables, and the use of tools such as fishing rods and rakes to harvest lingcod, clams, and sea urchins. To celebrate their marine harvest, the group hosted two community harvest events in June—one in Snueymuxw at the Point and another in Penelakut at the Spit. These events, where participants shared their bountiful catch with community members, were warmly received.
The program culminated in the 4th annual Ku’ki’youk fishing derby, where youth further celebrated their inherent right to fish and strengthened ties to their cultural identity.
The Spring/Summer harvest showcased the importance of lifelong harvesting skills, cultural connections, and the confidence gained through hands-on learning. Looking ahead, discussions are underway to include new teachings such as berry harvesting, jam-making, and gathering medicinal plants to create teas, salves, and tinctures. Elders and knowledge keepers will continue to play a central role, with leaders like Dean Wallace of Stz’uminus joining the program alongside Chief John Elliott.
Mentorship and Leadership Development
A key highlight of the program’s growth is the involvement of youth mentors, some of whom have participated in all three previous hunting seasons. These mentors have blossomed into confident leaders, now sharing their knowledge and experiences with new participants. This passing of wisdom strengthens the program’s core mission of community-building and cultural continuity.
A Winter Journey: Hunting For Smuyuth
In November, two groups of youth traveled to the BC-Alberta border for an annual deer hunt. The expedition involved a road crew transporting equipment while the youth flew to northern BC, where they applied their skills to hunt mule deer. “I’ve learned mostly about being quiet and patient,” said participant Benson Nelson. “I liked the experience of being in the cold, waiting. I liked the nature—seeing the deer, watching the deer, shooting, carrying them myself.”
Each shot was taken with respect and gratitude, as Elders emphasized the sacred responsibility of harvesting. “We want them to know that the animal is giving its life for you to feed your family,” said John Elliott. “We harvest in a respectful way so that there will be deer for generations to come.”
After the hunt, participants were tasked with processing, skinning, and butchering the deer, ensuring every part of the animal was used. Relatives requested skins for drum-making and antlers for ceremonies, while the processed meat was shared within families and communities.
Community Impact and Gratitude
Maureen Sam (Penelakut) shared her appreciation for the program, saying, “My two grandkids loved the whole experience, from target practice to traveling to faraway places, having success in the hunt, and learning how to skin and butcher deer meat. I raise my hands to everyone who makes this program happen. It’s such a great opportunity for our youth to gain skills, learn hunting protocols, and bring pride to our community.”
Respecting the Harvest continues to teach respect for the land, the importance of family, and the reclamation of cultural traditions. As Chief John Elliott put it, “It’s teaching them about respect, family, and how to bring culture back into their lives and traditions.”