The waters of the Fraser River carried the stories, strength and the spirit of celebration on Thursday, May 22, as more than 30 Indigenous Grade 12 students from the Delta and Coquitlam school districts embarked on a one-day canoe journey to honour their transition from high school into the next chapter of their lives.
The day began in ceremony at the Deas Island dock with a traditional cedar brushing of the canoes, a sacred act of cleansing and protection. As their paddles dipped into the river, the students set off on a journey in Delta’s "Wave Warrior" and Coquitlam’s "Waverunner" that mirrored their own personal growth and resilience.
They stopped at the Elliott Street Wharf in Ladner, where they came ashore to share a meal and stories. The students then continued to Wellington Point, where they engaged in a heartfelt closing ceremony.
“The challenges students face on the canoe are symbolic of the obstacles they’ve overcome in high school and those they will meet as they step into adulthood,” said Vanessa Butler, Indigenous culture and student empowerment co-ordinator with the Delta School District.
“Each paddle stroke is a moment of reflection — learning when to move with the current and when to push against it. By journey’s end, they see not only how far they’ve come, but also who’s been beside them all along,” added DeltaSD Indigenous cultural mentor Nathan Wilson.
“Together, they move forward with one voice, one heart, and one community,” said Rob Cowie, an Indigenous resource teacher with the Coquitlam School District.
Students clearly appreciated the experience.
“I enjoyed joining students from Coquitlam School District and being part of a community on this journey today,” said Noah, a Grade 12 student from Delta.
“I love canoeing; it’s one of my all-time favourite things to do. Today was beautiful… I loved every part of it. It was spiritually healing,” said Grade 12 Coquitlam student Breanna.
Kiya, a Grade 12 student from Delta, added it felt good to connect with their culture.
"I felt a connection to my ancestors being out on the river. I felt like they were paddling alongside us.”
Some younger students from both school districts also participated in the event, either as paddlers (known as pullers) or providing shore-side support. The event also involved 20 dedicated educators from both districts, who offered encouragement and guidance to the students.
Cathryn Tucker is director of communications with the Delta School District.
