Marion Talks the Potlatch System

From L-R: My brother Carey, my mum Edith, My Auntie Vera, Me, My uncle Edwin and my dad Victor. Then the other chiefs seated in front of the singers)  I am being given my ceremonial name, Nege’ga, at my uncle’s potlatch.

The richest have the most to give in the potlatch system and no rich family can live well or be respected if there are any in the community who are going without. Potlatches are a form of hierarchy, but families can change their rank based on how often they potlatch and how much they give. Sharing one’s wealth brings respect and higher status and that was enough incentive to have kept the potlatch system going for thousands of years before settlers banned the practise for nearly 70 years. 

During potlatch feasts weddings, deaths, important life stages, bad deeds as well as accomplishments are marked and witnessed by all who attend. The witnesses are paid in gifts and this is how the wealth is shared. Exchanges and gifting included not only material items but rights to names, dances, and songs, which were included in the measurement of wealth.

If you want to learn more, Marion suggests the following links:

https://umistapotlatch.ca/potlatch-eng.php