Culture

Members of the Metlakatla Nation are proud of their history and culture as Tsimshian people. Many historians have documented the culture, traditions and stories of the Coast Tsimshian (Metlakatla and Lax Kw’alaams) in their shared traditional territories. Metlakatla members continue to enjoy their inherent rights and freedom to harvest traditional food, practice traditional ceremonies and honour their history and lineage.

A number of years ago, Metlakatla members decided to form a traditional dance group. The late Alvin Leask, Sr. named the group – Metlakatla Sugyigyet Dancers which means 'a new generation'. The dance group has grown not only in size but skill as well. The Sugyigyet Dancers have performed a number of times for the Prince Rupert Aboriginal Day celebrations, Hobiyee (the celebration of Nisga’a new year), Seafest, Prince Rupert Children’s Festival and special events taking place in Metlakatla. Sugyigyet Dancers performed at the official opening of the Prince Rupert Port, National Aboriginal Capital Corporation Association Annual General Meeting, 50th Anniversary - Opening of the All Native Basketball Tournament and most recently at the 2010 Torch light celebrations in Prince Rupert.

Two members of our Dance Group, Shaela and Victoria White were chosen to participate in the opening ceremonies of the Vancouver 2010 Olympics. "It was such an HONOR to represent our Community and the Tsimshian Nation!"

The Metlakatla Sugyigyet Dancers proudly represent Metlakatla at all functions. The Dancers enjoy singing and dancing and it shows! The Metlakatla Sugyigyet Dancers welcome new members – you can contact the Band Office or the Development Office for more information. You can also find information about the Metlakatla Sugyigyet Dance Group on their Facebook Page. Join their Facebook Group to receive news and upcoming event updates!