Canada C3 Expedition visits the Nass Valley.
On September 27, 2017, the Canada C3 Expedition paid a visit to the beautiful Nass Valley.
As part of Canada’s 150 celebrations, the Canada C3 Expedition began its sea-to-sea-to-sea voyage on a retired 70-foot ice breaker coast guard ship from Toronto on June 1st and made its way around over to the east coast, then north across the Northwest Passage, up around Alaska and down the British Columbia Coast where they’ll end their journey in Victoria on October 28th.
The intent is not only to celebrate the 150 years of Canada, but to obtain a deep understanding of the many cultures, lifestyles, and history of Canadians along the way.
Chief Bill Wilson and Bev Sellars were a part of the Leg 12, 40 person group whose journey began in Tuktoyaktuk and ended in Prince Rupert. Wilson – a long-time friend of the Nisga’a Nation called President Eva Clayton as the ship was making its way around Alaska. Bill wanted the group to experience a day in the Nass Valley and the culture of the Nisg̱a’a Nation.
The C3 crew anchored the large ship outside of Gingolx and came on-shore for a day of activities throughout the Valley.
They first made their way by bus to Nisga’a Lisims Government in GItlax̱t’aamiks for a meet and greet, followed by lunch with the NLG Executive. Bill Wilson was welcomed to address the NLG Executive. In an emotional address Bill gave mention to some of the early Nisga’a leaders he had the opportunity to work with. He was happy to point out the pictures on the wall of the former Presidents of the Nisga’a Nation including the late Dr. Frank Calder, James Gosnell, Alvin McKay, and Nelson Leeson. He went on to express his sincere gratitude that Oscar Mercer, Edmond Wright, and Dr. Joseph Gosnell are still active today and encouraged current leaders to be proud and carry on.
After the NLG visit, they toured some sites along the Nisga’a Memorial Lava Bed Park, the Gitwinksihlkw suspension bridge, the Nisga’a Museum, and then concluded their day in the ’Seafood Capital of the Nass’ with a traditional sea food dinner provided by Ging̱olx caterers Winnie and Lyla Doolan. The Ging̱olx Cultural Dancers then performed. Following Gingolx, a trio of musicians from the C3 group also had the opportunity to share musical gifts with the community of Gingolx before they made their way back on board the ship.
The group then made their way to Prince Rupert the following day. For more information about Canada C3 and to watch the remainder of its journey to Victoria, visit their website at canadac3.ca.
Please feel free to view photos at the following link:
Canada C3 Visit to the Nass Valley
