Honouring a lifetime of service, over 300 friends, colleagues and community members gathered on Saturday evening, September 7, 2013, in Gitlaxt’aamiks to pay homage to a man who dedicated 42 years of service to his community and to the Nisga’a Nation. Edmond Wright, Sim’oogit K’amluugidis , was honored along with his wife Millicent Wright, his children, Ruth Robinson, James Wright and Michelle Stevens, their spouses, and grandchildren at a recognition dinnerhosted by the Nisga’a Village of Gitlaxt’aamiks.   Chief Gerald Robinson welcomed those in attendance, and supper was served.  During the meal, the Mass Band lead by Reverend Harry Moore gave a resounding musical rendition of such Nisga’a favourites as the blues march “Raunchy” which was greatly appreciated by all in the hall.

This performance was followed by a special slideshow presentation which chronicled the life, education, awards, and accomplishments of Edmond over the many decades for his Village and for the Nisga’a Nation.  Listed were the numerous committees and organizations that Edmond served on over many years.  Also noted, were his many years of service as Secretary-Treasurer for Nisga’a Tribal Council and Nisga’a Lisims Government, his work as a negotiator, and his extensive contributions towards the fiscal architecture of the Nisga’a government that exists today.   Above all, his commitment to his family and community shone through the long list of achievements.

A long list of well wishers then spoke. 

President Mitchell Stevens spoke on behalf of the Nisga’a Nation, recounting the many lessons learned in working with Edmond over the years.   In particular, President Stevens made special mention of honouring Millicent and their children for sharing their father these many years with the Nation so Edmond could bring home the Treaty.

There was the toast by Deputy Chief Councillor Keith Clayton.    Ed’s longtime friend Frank Parnell shared residential school experiences, and how Edmond led the establishment of a group to look out for the younger members at residential school.  On behalf of the law firm of Aldridge and Rosling, long time legal counsel Marcus Bartley spoke about Edmond’s prodigious mind and memory which was “like a steel trap.”  Bill Moore then spoke, followed by Edmond’s uncle Oscar Mercer who shared his recollections of his nephew.   The Mayor of Terrace made a presentation of a picture of a Kermode Bear and shared some perspective on just how amazing a 42 year record of public service really was.  One speaker humorously shared how Edmond became very strongly associated with the expression “no bloody way.”

It was a moment of fond family reflections when Edmond’s immediate family siblings spoke.  His sister Lorene Plante shared how Edmond was groomed from an early age for leadership by his grandmother who encouraged Edmond’s mother to continue to feed his eager young mind.  This was because Edmond’s grandmother foresaw how Edmond was going to be a great leader some day.  His sister Darlene Morgan, CAO Gitlaxt’aamiks, shared that although Edmond was away at residential school in Edmonton, she and her sisters were always reminded by Edmond to write to Santa in Alberta. Each Christmas, Edmond ensured that the list that was sent to Santa in Edmonton was always filled.

A representative from each of the four Nisga’a Villages was on hand to make comments or a presentation, some of which included:

• A certificate from Nisga’a Lisims Government recognizing 42 years of public service
• Very generous gifts from Gitlaxt’aamiks and Laxgalts’ap for Edmond and Millicent to enjoy in their retirement.

There were thanks from the Anglican Church Women’s (ACW) Auxillary where Shirley Moven, Chair of the Council of Elders, praised the foresight of Edmond’s grandmother for identifying his leadership potential from such an early age.  The cooks also spoke. Long time friend Gary Tait described the meaning of the word K’ubawilksihlkw, which literally translated includes the notion of ‘being around’ - to be a runner/gofer, to help, and ultimately to learn the meaning of community service.  This is how the path towards leadership has been groomed at the community level for centuries within Nisga’a culture; Edmond’s life is a living example of this tradition. Gary summed it up by stating “Edmond was there.”

When Edmond finally spoke, he thanked those in attendance and thanked everyone for the generous gifts. He echoed the sentiments of his friend Gary Tait, reinforcing how the tradition of community service needs to continue.  He also commented about the accomplishments of the Treaty and the negotiation techniques which were used to achieve the benefits we have today in our Treaty.  Edmond spoke fondly of his late friend President Nelson Leeson. He was as gracious as ever in his thanks to the people. 

The evening was closed with a traditional prayer, followed by a dance for all to have some fun.

In all, it was a wonderful evening of reflection and praise for a man who has very quietly and humbly in the tradition of a Sim’oogit made an enormous contribution to the resolution of the land question in BC, the history of the Treaty making process in Canada, and whose accomplishments will echo long into the future of the Nisga’a Nation.

 To view the photos of this special occassion please click this link...https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.540203296044937.1073741828.233...