Sllem Yanilth – “Bring them Home”

Raven Hillenbrand is a member of the Gitxaala Nation, Git lax mo’on (People of the Saltwater), just off the coast of Prince Rupert.  She is also a plumber/gas B fitter instructor here at UA Piping Industry College of BC and a member of UA Local 170.   Twelve years ago, Raven started her journey to become a Red Seal certified journeyperson when she enrolled in the Women of Trades Program at UAPICBC.  During her path from apprentice to journey person and now instructor, she has mentored many people and encouraged them to join the trades too.  UA Piping Industry College of BC asked Raven to design a pin, to show our support for the Kamloops band and the 215 children.  The pin is called ‘Silem Yanith’ which means ‘bring them home’ in the Tsimshian language. 

“When I drew this design in honour of our children who didn’t make it home and were not properly laid to rest; the Raven came to mind. Raven is known for a lot of things such as a being a trickster and transformation. In this picture, he is spreading his wings low to comfort the children; Guiding each loved one as the healing begins.” (Raven Hillenbrand)

Sagyt glum goot 

Of one heart

 

 

 

Will
May 19, 2021