Family and Identity
If someone asked who you were you might say, "I am Bob," or "I am Kate. "But what if they wanted to know more? You might say, "I like to read. I am a fast runner. I have two sisters. I am honest. I like the color green." These are all facts aoubt yourself and together, they make up your identity. Two facts that Nisga'a always use to identify themselves are their "Tribe" and "House" |
There are four Nisga'a tribes:
Ganada (Nisga'a
word for Raven/Frog)
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Laxgibuu (Nisga'a
word for Wolf/Bear)
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Gisk'aast (Nisga'a
word for Killerwhale/Owl)
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Laxsgiik (Nisga'a
word for Eagle/Beaver)  |
Every Nisga'a is a member of one of these tribes. Each Nisga'a is also a member of a "Wilp" or House. Each house has its own chiefs, territories, rights, history, stories, songs, dances and traditions.
| As a member of a tribe and of a wilp, a Nisga'a goes to many feasts and other important ceremonies. By taking a place as a host or a guest at these events each Nisga'a learns more about his or her wilp and tribe. This knowledge is an imprtant part of the identity of every Nisga'a person. |
There are important rules in Nisga'a society about how members of these groups behave toward each other. They are much like the rules that people of any culture must follow. These rules help Nisga'a know how to behave in different situations and during difficult times. They help keep the Nisga'a stong. |
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