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04 August 2011
Gitxsan Hereditary System: The Alternative that Works
by GJ Sebastian
We are no. 2 but we try harder. Our people here in the northwest know how to work. Gitxsan country continues to be the foundation of a prosperous economy. Just a little more clarity would remind you of your importance.
As a Gitxsan person you contribute, even one hour of your time to make your family’s feast successful. The hereditary system is expensive but each of you is worth it. Whenever any family has a crisis you and your house members are always so helpful – a few dollars, food and time to serve. The Gitxsan system works so well, everyone benefits.
Proudly we are home to a large amount of students funded by our band councils, from elementary to high school to colleges – and our university in Prince George. Where will you work? Job creation on your lax yip entitles you to a job. Gitxsan territory (33,000 sq km) expands your opportunities for work training, fisheries, forestry, mining, and on reserve there is carpentry, office work, and much more. Your head chief is among 60 decision makers in the Gimlitxwit.
Your chief is confident that he makes the toughest decisions you love and support. These are mostly common sense decisions based on yuhlimox : ayookw, age and experience of life. The Gitxsan Development Corporation is one huge decision your chief is making for you to benefit.
This is what the Gitxsan Hereditary System has done for over 100 years. In the past few years we are re-inventing how we live off the land (lax yip) and use our fisheries. Thus you as the best educated person in your wilp can help your Simogyat re-establish your wilp as the economic entity, a cornerstone of the northwest economy.
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