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Hadih.
I should have explained my use of that word at the beginning of my note in last month’s newsletter.
Hadih (pronounced ‘ha-DEE’) means “hello” in Dakelh (Carrier), the language of the Lheidli T’enneh people and numerous other First Nations in the north-central BC region.
I use that word out of respect for the Lheidli T’enneh (“the people from the confluence of the river” in Carrier), on whose ancestral and unceded territory Prince George is located. Acknowledging that historical fact and using Hadih as a greeting is a polite gesture that costs me – and anyone else who does so – nothing except for the time and thought to do so but to be seen and respectfully acknowledged is deeply significant for the Lheidli T’enneh.
Put another way, that’s what a commitment to truth and reconciliation looks like in everyday life.
Two years ago this week, the Prince George Chamber of Commerce committed itself to another act of reconciliation by signing a formal partnership agreement with the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation.
“Our shared vision for the future is a sustainable environment that supports a healthy economy and a high quality of life for the betterment of the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation, the City of Prince George, and Central British Columbia,” the agreement states.
With that in mind, Chief Dolleen Logan is scheduled to speak at the True North Business Development Forum hosted by the Chamber next week at the House of Ancestors about the Lheidli T’enneh’s ongoing efforts with industry partners to develop major clean energy projects in its territory.
The agreement also commits LTFN and the Chamber to two dinner meetings per year to discuss the partnership and upcoming opportunities to work together for mutual benefit. The latest dinner meeting happens this week.
As Chamber members, you all know how relationship building is what fosters successful business growth. That’s why that ongoing relationship with the Lheidli T’enneh is so good for the entire community.
All the best to each of you.
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