Two language and knowledge keepers of the community in Lheidli T’enneh Prince George, Josephine Paul and Edith “Edie” Rose Frederick passed away within a week of one another this September 2024.
It is difficult to overstate their respective contributions to language revitalization and cultural recognition both locally and in the province of BC. Edie’s voice is featured throughout the online Lheidli Dakelh Dictionary, her pupils are many, and her translations are prolific on signage throughout the townsite of Prince George.
This loss opens a void in the community. To accommodate the volume of mourners and activity spurred in the wake of these painful events, multiple gatherings were held between October 2nd through 7th where all in the community were welcome, culminating in a gathering at the downtown Civic Centre.
When attendees were asked how to best fill the empty space in the wake of this loss, many urged participation in learning the Dakelh language.
