Attractive modern buildings tucked above the shores of the Ahta River Estuary may take boaters by surprise as they explore remote Bond Sound in the Broughtons region. This special place now serves as the Hada Culture Camp under the direction of the Nawalakw organization (pronounced Now-wah-law-k).
This new camp is part of the Kwakwaka’wakw First Nations Territory where youth immerse themselves in their native Kwak’wala language and the traditions of their ancestors. The cultural camp currently houses up to 24 students, their teachers, and up to 12 support staff.
K’odi Nelson, Executive Director of the camp, says he has witnessed the positive change in students after they spend just a week’s time at the camp. Students come away with a new since of identity and a positive outlook for the future. The Kwak’wala language is considered endangered, but as students learn about traditional food harvesting, medicines, environmental stewardship, and other cultural lessons and skills, they are also learning their Native language at the same time. A sense of pride and healing are the benefits of this special camp.
As an elementary school teacher in Port Hardy, K’odi would take his students on camping trips and he soon realized that his students were retaining more of their traditional language through practical experiences. Teaching a Native language in schools alone didn’t seem to be enough to produce fluent language speakers. Thus, his vision of the Hada Camp was born. His success is evident by the big demand now coming from school groups requesting bookings.
Funding has been a success as well, millions of dollars have come from individual donors, foundations, and other sources for continued capital improvements and ongoing operations. Donations from individuals and organizations are always appreciated and can be submitted HERE in support of healing and language revitalization programs and camp infrastructure.
Waggoner has been in contact with K’odi Nelson regarding possible visitations from the boating public and how that might work. Stay tuned to learn more.
Photo: Bob & Betsy Sharf
WG Field Correspondents
