A new entranceway now rises above Centennial Park bearing both its English and new Secwépemc name Tsecwil'ecul'ecw.
Installed by the District of 100 Mile House over the summer, this new fir entranceway is unmissable, welcoming all to the park. On Monday, Oct. 21 the district along with the Tsq̓éscen̓ First Nation council, community members and representatives of the Cariboo Regional District gathered together to commemorate its installation. Kúkpi7 (chief) Helen Henderson of the Tsq̓éscen̓ First Nation said she felt immense pride and gratitude to see her people's language recognized in such a way.
"This momentous occasion not only acknowledges the rich heritage and culture of the Secwépemc people but also strengthens the bond between our diverse communities," Henderson said. "The Secwepemctsin name that graces this sign was collaborative effort from our matriarchs and our knowledge keepers and elders. They speak our language and suggested Tsecwil'ecul'ecw which beautifully translates to 'a place on the land to enjoy the company of children."
Henderson said the sign serves as a reminder of the deep connection her people share with the land and the joy everyone can find in Centennial Park. She noted the park was a favoured camping ground for the Tsq̓éscen̓ before colonization and it remains a part of their histories and stories.
"These stories, rich with tradition, speak of camping, fishing and the thrilling chase of wild horses painting a vivid picture of life and adventure in and around Centennial Park," Henderson remarked. "Today as we raise this sign we also raise our hands and honour those stories and ensure they are passed down to future generations. We invite everyone who comes to this park to not only reflect on its natural beauty but also our shared history."
Following Henderson's remarks former chief and elder Mike Archie led attendees in singing the Cradle Song to mark the occasion, noting he felt it appropriate given the name. Archie said it's important to have a safe place like Centennial Park for children to come and gather. He noted in addition to Centennial Park, the 108 Mile Ranch and Green Lake were also traditional camping areas for the Tsq̓éscen people.
"It is really important to have those visiting areas where your visitors can come and enjoy the place, especially with our children. Our children have a safe place to play and be looked after and there's more to come in the future," Archie remarked.
The elders who came up with the name included Elizabeth Pete, Antoinette Archie and Elsie Archie. Pete, who attended the ceremony, explained afterwards that Secwepemctsin has many different words for children depending on the context.
"Children, in our culture, were very, very important," Pete said.
She remarked that she came up with the name by chance while looking for terms to use at the treaty table. A few days later Pete learned that 100 Mile House was looking for a Secwépemc name for Centennial Park and suggested Tsecwil'ecul'ecw, which is pronounced 'ChEcw-wheel-ecw-oo-lecw' phonetically.
Mayor Maureen Pinkney said council originally approved the construction of the sign two years ago and it was made by Sitka Log Homes for $27,000. She noted council wanted to work closely with the Tsq̓éscen̓ First Nation to get their name onto the feel of the park.
"It's a community park for everybody and it was very important for us to acknowledge the new sign with a name they would provide," Pinkney said. "It's an honour to work with the First Nations and learn the history of the land that we are walking on. I was born here so I know a lot of the history from that point on but that's still new history. To hear their stories and where they travelled is valued information."
Henderson said outside of the symbolic value of giving Centennial Park a traditional name, it also helps keep Secwepemctsin alive and utilized. She noted her people's language is an important part of their identity and in recent years they've been making a conscious effort to preserve and grow it, for the benefit of their children and youth.
"Being able to speak it again is beautiful and it empowers our youth," Henderson said. "For them to come and enjoy Centennial Park and see their language, they'll know that they are home and safe."
