Our Origin
Swiilawiid is inspired by the dedicated people who have made Haida Gwaii what it is today. From Athlii Gwaii to our united stand against supertankers, we have an intergenerational and rich history of stewarding our part of the planet. Swiilawiid humbly works to uphold this legacy.
As a small but mighty organization, we were founded by a group of Island people who see it as our shared responsibility to take care of each other and Haida Gwaii. We are committed to Haida Gwaii’s well-being.
Swiilawiid is Xaayda kil for Pine Grosbeak, Red Crossbill, and Hermit Thrush. Our logo was designed by local writer, artist, designer, and Maker of Nets, Kara Sievewright.
Swiilawiid
So Far
2023
Winter · 2023 Haida Gwaii Renewable Energy Symposium. Tawk’ii Daanaay Tll Kunsda • Tl’a Táwk’aa Kúnst’ayee Starting a Garden: Ten Food Plants to Grow on Haida Gwaii launch.
Spring · Hlk’yak’ii Programs started - Spruce Root Weaving and Wiid Berry Propagation. Hired our second Engagement Lead! Partnered with Council of the Haida Nation to develop a Renewable Energy and Climate Change Policy. Hosted a Haida Gwaii Renewable Energy Youth Symposium.
Summer · Hired our second Youth Ambassador! Community Engagement Events - Harbour Days, Skidegate Days, Tll.aal Fall Fair, and Hospital Days. Haida Gwaii Renewable Energy Symposium Summary released. Co-hosted a Youth Stop-Motion Workshop with Gaw Tlagée Youth Centre. Presented at the BC Museum Assosciation Gathering at Saahilnda Naay
Fall · Co-hosted the Makeway Indigenous Food Gathering in Tll.aal. Attended CHN Open Houses and Kay Winterfest. Welcomed part-time Engagement Coordinator! Hosted two webinars on wind energy and cooperatives. Hosted a Ravenstail Spinning Workshop in Masset.
2022
Winter · Hired our first Engagement Lead!
Spring · Webinars: Taking Care of Haida Gwaii and Ask a Gardener. Hired our first Youth Ambassador!
Summer · Video Series: Community Strength and Cohesion Series. Hired our first Projects + Partnerships Lead!
Fall · Renewable Energy Options for Haida Gwaii released.
2021
Winter · Webinars: Island Energy Independence - Where are we at today? and Power to the People Youth Screening
Summer · Hlk'yak'ii exhibition opens in partnership with the Haida Gwaii Museum
Fall · Strategic planning
2020
Winter · Participate in "Youth Leading Change" event and present at Coast Watch. COVID-19 global pandemic.
Spring · Power to the People launches on APTN
Summer · Haida Independence videos launch online.
2019
Time to pause and reflect after the Haida Gwaii Renewable Energy Symposium.
Approved work plan and strategic plan.
Hosted two solar co-operative sessions.
2018
Winter · Welcome new directors! Energy Toolkit launches. Cool It! workshops offered in local schools. Rediscovery Adventure Camp installations complete.
Spring · Third year strategic planning. Guests attend conference in Denmark.
Summer · Host Power to the People + community engagement at all Islands events
Fall · Renewable Energy Symposium!
Finalized bylaws + transition to new Societies Act.
2017
Winter · Finalize “I Support Renewable Energy” decal, start install for rediscovery solar projects.
Summer · Second year strategic planning, present at Climate for Change retreat.
Fall · Old Massett and Skidegate Youth Centre solar installations complete + celebration! Present at Climacon and People vs. Oil conferences.
2016
Summer · First Strategic Planning meeting. Name officially becomes Swiilawiid.
Listening and learning tour with other coastal communities transitioning to renewable energy, including a tour of the T'souke solar community.
