Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at cwillie@coppermaker.ca if you cannot find an answer to your question.

Do all Indigenous groups use the dream catcher, sage for smudging, and medicine wheel?

Not all Indigenous groups utilize the same ceremonial objects or practices. While the dream catcher, sage smudging, and medicine wheel are significant within certain Indigenous cultures, it's important to recognize the diversity of traditions among different Nations. Each group has its own unique ceremonies, protocols, and sacred items that hold deep cultural meaning. Though the specific expressions may vary, the underlying intentions of these ceremonies – such as healing, purification, and connection to the spiritual realm – often share common ground

Do you teach/conduct ceremonies?

Teaching: I provide comprehensive instruction in the theory and practice of Kwakwaka'wakw ceremonies. This is exclusively available to individuals of Kwakwaka'wakw ancestry who seek to carry on these traditions for their families and communities.
Officiating: I am honored to be called upon to lead ceremonies for a range of Kwakwaka'wakw traditional leaders and communities.

Do you go into detail of who the traditional leaders are in each clan for each nation?

While this website doesn't offer a comprehensive directory of traditional clan leaders, it explores the Na̱mima system and its potential to provide an alternative model of governance that may supersede the current elected band council system. This system, established by the Canadian Federal Government, can be seen by some as a colonial construct. The focus here is on examining broader systemic approaches to leadership within Indigenous communities.

Do you offer your workshop outside of your traditional territory?

Yes, I do. I believe these teachings can be valuable to everyone, and I'm committed to adapting the workshop to respectfully acknowledge and incorporate the cultural context of different locations and audiences.