On July 26, CSFS Youth Services hosted a learning Bah’lats at the Coast Inn of the North in Prince George to honour youth in a traditional way. Participants prepared beforehand by learning about the protocols and history of the Bah’lats system.  
Hereditary Chiefs Helen Michelle and Barby Skaling seated participants as they arrived. Once everyone was seated with their clans, the event began with a territory welcoming and prayer from Phyllis Seymour of Lheidli T’enneh First Nation, followed by a rattle cry from Community Facilitator and Hereditary Chief Eugene Patrick. With the ceremony underway, drummers welcomed each clan with songs while participants danced in. The drummers were Hereditary Chiefs Cindy Lowley-Patrick, Eugene Patrick, Damien Pierre, Rose Pierre, Lucy Smith, and Saik’uz First Nation Councillor, Rodney Teed. 

After enjoying a meal, the Bah'lats proceeded with the main business. The youth were recognized for their participation in their programs by receiving gifts that represented one of the qualities of the seven teachings: wisdom, responsibility, balance, caring, honesty, compassion, and respect. 

The Bah’lats offered many gifts, including soy sauce, bread, canned fish, and more. Guests left with their bags, bellies, and hearts full. The ceremony closed with a prayer from Rodney Teed. 

CSFS’ Youth Services offers cultural, recreational, educational, and land-based opportunities for youth through year-round programming and one-to-one service delivery.  

To find out more about Youth Services, visit www.csfs.org/services/youth-services.