Laws of Matriarch

As Gitxsan people, we honor the sacred laws of our matriarchs and deeply respect those who give life. Our identity is rooted in our mothers; if your mother is Gitxsan, then you carry our lineage. In British Columbia, we do not recognize Métis as part of our communities. The Indian Act disregards our traditional laws and allows individuals to claim native identity for personal advantage, which is a misuse of our heritage.  In Canada, there exists a pervasive, socially accepted form of racism that favors those who appear more European, marginalizing our true Indigenous identities. We cherish all our children, as family is paramount, but we firmly believe that children belong to their mothers and our matriarchal traditions guide us. Before colonization, our people lived in harmony with the laws of matriarchy. Louis, whose mother was white, was not considered part of our nation, and he identified with a Métis Nation as a way to find belonging outside of our traditions. Systemic racism...

Always connect with your ancestors and the spirits around you. Respecting the spirit world is what matters most. In this world, there’s so much hatred and confusion. I’ve noticed that spaces meant for prayer can sometimes get bogged down in criticism rather than focusing on spirituality. The question often comes up: why are women separated from the ceremony when they’re on their period? Women and those with female reproductive systems are sacred. When the ceremony of life begins, it opens the doors to the spirit world. Females have a strength that surpasses men; they endure the pain that comes with this sacred process. Women are life-givers and deserve our utmost respect. This life-giving ceremony is separate from the men. If you disagree, maybe take a moment to talk to your ancestors about it. Regarding patriarchy: If this is just about power, control over women, and fear of weakness, then we’re not really discussing ceremony or spirituality. I believe this is a fight against patriarc...