Two former pillars of the Saik’uz First Nation and community of Vanderhoof were honoured today.
Portraits of Mary John Sr. and Sophie Thomas now hang in the entrance of St John’s Hospital.
Son of Sophie, Saik’uz Chief Stanley Thomas says the two were ambassadors for First Nations culture and Vanderhoof.
“The experience they had with medicine, healing, teaching, culture, language. They are a great inspiration for all the young people and all people of all races.”
“People like Mary and Mom, our ancestors, their voices are still being heard today.”
Sophie Thomas was a healer and former chief of the Saik’uz. She worked with and lectured students across the province on the relationship between people and plants in the environment. She also spoke at international events about traditional medicine and healing.
Mary John Sr was a community leader who received several honours including the Order of Canada and Queen’s Jubilee medal. She worked relentlessly to preserve Carrier culture and language until her death in 2004.
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