Snuneymuxw First Nation

Geraldine Manson, C’tasi:a

A respected Snuneymuxw Elder and Traditional Knowledge Keeper, C’Tasi:a has worked with the Gabriola Historical and Museum Society for over 23 years. Her work includes the following:

• as a Knowledge Holder and spiritual guide on the Museum’s Truth and Reconciliation initiatives,
• collaborating on indoor and outdoor exhibits,
• providing tours onsite,
• teaching about the importance of petroglyphs,
• offering teachings from the Ancestors including the importance and sacred significance of the Ancestors and sites,
• offering Welcome ceremonies and ritual (to the traditional, unceded territory of Snuneymuxw) for museum events including drumming and song,
• giving workshops on selected topics including Snuneymuxw protocols,
• and giving historical and cultural talks including on the impact of residential schools.

In addition to her work on behalf of the museum and Gabriola Island, C’Tasi:a is a Vancouver Island University Elder-in-Residence, where she provides support to faculty members and First Nations students; assists with the understanding of First Nations practices in relation to traditional health and healing; provides guidance, blessings, and protocol for ceremonial and cultural events; and hosts guests and visiting Elders.