čičyɛ (cheech-yeh) is the ʔayaǰuθəm word for grandmother.
The čičyɛ Circle carries that name to honour the role that čičyɛ have always played in our families, as carers, teachers, and protectors of children. The Circle welcomes čɛǰɛtən (grandparents) and family leaders of all genders who hold that role in their family.
Why the Circle Exists
The čičyɛ Circle was established in 2022 and supports Tla’amin’s Child & Family Services Reform. The goal of that reform is for child and family services to be established and driven by Tla’amin, rather than by the provincial Ministry of Children and Family Development.
The Circle advises on Child and Family Services that are culturally safe and based in Tla’amin identity and culture.
The Circle does not review and advise on individual or family child welfare issues and does not have access to personal information.
Who Sits On the Circle
Circle members hold a traditional family head role in their family, and are either registered to Tla’amin Nation, registered to an ʔayaǰuθəm-speaking sister Nation (Klahoose, Homalco, or Comox), or have children or grandchildren registered to one of these Nations.
The Circle holds up to 15 members at a time. Members serve two-year terms and can reapply for their seat when their term ends. The Child & Family Services Manager and/or the Director of Community Services help organize and chair Circle meetings, but are not Circle members themselves.
Guiding Values
The Circle holds itself to values rooted in ʔayaǰuθəm teachings, and expects the same from anyone working alongside Tla’amin Child & Family Services. Please visit: https://www.tlaaminnation.com/our-nation/who-we-are/our-taaw/
Joining the Circle
When a seat opens, notice goes out through the Neh Motl, Tla’amins Facebook pages, the Tla’amin website, and door-to-door flyers. Anyone interested lets the Chair know, verbally or in writing, confirms they meet the criteria, and shares why joining the čičyɛ Circle matters to them. The Chair brings that information to the existing Circle, who recommend whether to invite the new member. If there are more prospective members than seats, the Circle decides by anonymous vote. The Chair then meets with the prospective member to share the decision and, if invited, walks them through what the role involves.
The čičyɛ Circle’s Terms of Reference were approved by Tla’amin Nation’s Executive Council.