Potlatch 67-67: The Potlatch Ban Then and Now

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Friday, August 24th, 2018

2018 marks the 67th year since the Canadian government’s Potlatch Ban was lifted, after it was imposed on First Nations for 67 years. Hereditary Chief Rob Everson of the Gigalgam Walas Kwaguɫ, recognizing that many Canadians do not understand the history of Indigenous peoples, envisioned an arts and cultural program that would powerfully engage the local community and fellow Canadians, both Indigenous and settler, about this history and the impact.

Based on Chief Everson’s vision, a group including Lee Everson, other Kumugwe Cultural Society representatives, local Indigenous artists, Elders, and staff at the Comox Valley Art Gallery came together in the spring of 2017 to discuss the magnitude of the project and to ensure its viability and success. It was decided that from June to October, 2018, the Kumugwe Cultural Society will present “Potlatch 67–67: An Indigenous Art Showcse in the Comox Valley.

The Society contacted artists, cultural carriers, Elders, and arts/cultural professionals and organizations to ask for their participation. The artists were invited to provide responses, through their creative practice, to the impact of the Potlatch Ban and its reinstatement on their lives, families, communities, art making and cultural practices.

Many artists agreed to participate and create new artworks that speak to their relationship and interpretation of the Potlatch Ban. Many of these artists have connections to the “Potlatch 67- 67” creators through various gatherings including arts based activities, clan events and Potlatches.

With organizers, artists, and a clear vision, the creators of Potlatch 67-67 are delighted to present this Indigenous Art Showcase to the people of the Comox Valley in hopes that it will be an engaging and educational avenue to understanding Indigenous History.

For dates and times of Potlatch 67-67's cultural sharing events, check out https://potlatch6767.com or our FaceBook page @ https://www.facebook.com/Potlatch6767/