Gitxsan Slaves in Canada

 My great-grandfather was Stephen Morgan, a significant figure in our history as he was one of the initial owners of a Hudson's Bay Trading Post on Gitxsan territory, which lies between Terrace and Hazelton, BC. It's important to remember that Stephen Morgan was also a slave owner, which adds complexity to our family story and the broader narrative of colonialism in our lands.

In Gitxsan culture, we carry our history in various forms: through our names, songs, dances, clothing, and carved poles. These traditions serve as our living history, allowing us to remember and honor our ancestors and their experiences.

As a tribute to our lineage, my brother carries the name Stephen Morgan, while I am Stephanie Morgan. It brings a smile to my face to think of how our names connect us to our heritage.

Interestingly, when I looked up the meaning of my name, I found it traces back to the Greek name Στεφανος (Stephanos), which means "crown" or "that which surrounds." It reminds me of our connection to the land and our people, much like the way a crown represents leadership and legacy. The name also has historical roots, as Saint Stephen was a deacon who faced martyrdom, a testament to the struggles faced by many in the past. 

Our Gitxsan ways of remembering and honoring our history continue to be a vital part of who we are today. We carry the stories of our ancestors, both the triumphs and the trials, and weave them into the fabric of our identities.

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