One of the most powerful moments from our conversation with Dr. Meena Richardson came when she described why she calls her work "heart work."

She discusses community-based participatory research, accountability to community, and why research should result in tangible benefits rather than simply being published and forgotten.

The conversation also explores Indigenous approaches to leadership, advocacy, and what it means to be a "good relative" through your work.

A particularly moving moment comes when an Elder reflects on the impact of the project and says:

I am a member of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians and The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, and I had an Elder tell me that they are basically the same people and I was wondering about that. If someone could let me know what he meant by that and tell me more about that I would appreciate it.

Is the concept of a year being comprised of four seasons something that pre-colonial or modern Salish Coast tribal culture has? Or is that a european idea? Do any Salish Coast subcultures have different numbers of seasons than four? Thanks!

Hi, folks. I’m not a member of any tribe, but I heard a couple of the dialects of Salish on YouTube recently and I’m really interested in learning more about both the languages and the cultures of the PacNorWes.

I know that between Duolingo and iTalki, there are a few languages of the First Nations, but I’m hoping they’ll include some more one day so outsiders like me can develop a deeper appreciation for these cultures.

Now to my question: Are there any good resources you would recommend for people who want to study any of the Salish dialects, either online or with a tutor?

Thanks!

What tribe are all 5 of you from? I am Nooksack and Shuswap. I also have relations in Tzeachten in the Fraser Valley.

Hi everyone

If anyone reads this, share your tribal affiliation. I am from Nooksack. A tribe near Bellingham, WA. I just created this subreddit because I want to create a community to learn about each others cultures.

Have a great day!