CENQOLEW - THE DOG SALMON RETURN TO EARTH (September)

The Dog Salmon return to the Earth Moon at this time. The colours are Dog Salmon (ochre red). The men are returning the bones of the salmon to the sea, with thanks, in the belief that the bones will come to life and replenish the salmon stocks. The man raises his oar to show honour and respect to our relative, the salmon, who helps us survive.

CONNECTIONS AND BACKGROUND INFORMATION

September derives its name from the Latin word 'septem', meaning seven. This was the seventh month in the Roman calendar when the year began in March. This moon marks the arrival of the Dog Salmon.

WEATHER

The rainy weather continues and the winds have become unpredicatable. The creeks and rivers rise enough for the Dog Salmon to spawn.

ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES

Hunting for deer and groups was still ongoing. This was also the best season and weather conditions for cod fishing. Dog Salmon were the last of the salmon runs to return and the Saanich Peoples carried out this fishery at Goldstream. Dog Salmon was easily dried or smoked and was the last of the preserves to be stored away. The Langford area was excellent for cranberries, blueberries and grouse hunting.

CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

If the salmon run was late, the SNAM (spiritual leader or priest) was brought in to hold a ceremony to call the salmon. The SNAM would also advise the family captains of the correct protocol to adopt so that they would not offend the Salmon Peoples and thus ensure that the salmon returned to the rivers.

THINGS TO THINK ABOUT

• This is a time for preserving foods. Do you preserve or can any foods in your family?
• What Fall celebrations do other cultures celebrate?
• The Saanich People give their salmon bones back to the sea in thanks. How do you give thanks in the fall?
• With reference to the water cycle and personal observations of rivers and creeks, discuss the effects of rising water levels in creeks and rivers on communities.
• If possible, go to a local river, like Goldstream Park and see the Salmon spawning.
• What is the lifecycle of the salmon?