It’s been over 10 years now since Raven House lost its caretaker as provided – escorted out by police.
This house comes from 19 Mile – then 4 Mile – and no sockeye clans involved. Protocol was respected, as was the house.
A lot of hearts were hurt and disrespected by the clan who claims they inherited all properties and regalia. Not so. They should return it all to the rightful clan. A blanket from Yakutat (coho) Chilkat Blanket needs to be given back to the family. You can be a caretaker or clan leader, but never inherit.
Since all this happened, our culture here in Haines is nil, as with our IRA and ANB.
Many of us worked hard on Raven House and the culture camp, but now they say we must pay them to use the culture camp. How shameful you are.
Another true fact is, you cannot claim anything if you’re adopted, as in this case.
One more fact: The Sockeye Clan comes from Dundas Bay, not here in Haines. I wonder if they know that?
In other worlds, Raven House has a lot of history and many an elder walked on her floors.
The clan used Sealaska lawyers to fight this matter – then the police.
Myself, I grew up in the house and have seen many a good come out of the Raven House. Now she’s saddened by what has happened, as am I.
Phillip Jackson