qSD Community Gathers for Screening of təm kʷaθ nan (NAMESAKE) in Recognition of ɬaʔamɩn Day

In recognition of ɬaʔamɩn Day, nearly 100 members of our school district community gathered at the Patricia Theatre yesterday evening to bear witness to a story that has been unfolding since ɬaʔamɩn Nation submitted a formal request to change the City of Powell River’s name.

We raise our hands to the ɬaʔamɩn Nation and ally filmmakers, for pouring their hearts, energy, and four years of dedicated work into the powerful documentary, təm kʷaθ nan (NAMESAKE). The film helps deepen our understanding of the history of this place and invites us to better appreciate Indigenous perspectives, and to recognize that the intention behind aligning on a new name is rooted in a desire for all of us to live as equals and in good relations.

In the coming months, a small group of educators will be developing thoughtful, age-appropriate learning resources for teachers across the district to support classroom conversations connected to the film.

Thank you to everyone who attended with open hearts and a willingness to learn. And thank you to the film’s team members for joining us last night, opening up the space for a meaningful Q&A following the screening, and for creating something that allows this story to be shared more widely, so it can continue to be told and carried forward. čɛčɛhaθɛč - we are grateful to you!