On the winter solstice, invited guests will gather for an awakening ceremony to bless and honour the recently completed Tenth Street Indigenous Gathering Space.
In the spring, the community will be invited to a celebration to formally open the arbour, which will be a hub for Indigenous and diverse communities to connect through the sharing, practice and protection of Indigenous knowledge, history and relationships.
“Indigenous learning spaces engage our entire self to transfer knowledge and engage in ceremony,” says Dianne Biin, Selkirk College’s director of Indigenous education & engagement. “Ceremony enables Indigenous students to build belonging and the ability to have a sacred fire in the Indigenous Gathering Space supports transformative learning and reconnection.”
Constructed of timber and tin, the space features a central fire pit to accommodate sacred fires for ceremonial and healing practices.
“The relationship between humans and fire for survival and spirituality has existed since time immemorial. Within Indigenous cultures and beliefs, fire is a living spirit and a sacred gift,” says Melissa Dorey, Indigenous projects lead. “Fire is regarded as an ancient ancestor, and it is for this reason fire is central to Indigenous ceremonies. The fire represents our centre—where we go to for guidance, healing and wisdom. It is where we go to pray, to call in our ancestors and helpers. It is where we gather, share and give thanks.”
Once opened, the Tenth Street Indigenous Gathering Space will be available for ceremony, community events, celebrations, performances and learning related to Indigenous history, education, truth, justice and reconciliation. Information on orientation and booking will be made available in the new year. Prior to booking, users will be oriented on respectful use of the space, including teaching on the role and responsibility of the Firekeeper.
“The traditional role of the Firekeeper holds many meanings and responsibilities, which can be quite varied depending on the culture and/or ceremony. In general terms, the Firekeeper is responsible for upholding protocol and conduct and ensuring the fire is respected and cared for. Traditionally, the Firekeeper would have training from spiritual leaders and Elders where ancestral knowledge would be passed on through the generations.”
The Tenth Street Indigenous Gathering Space with the fire pit reflects the dynamic partnership between the City of Nelson, Selkirk College and regional Indigenous Nations. It was made possible through a Time Immemorial Grant, administered by the First Peoples’ Cultural Foundation and Heritage BC.