Graphic novel brings Xwémalhkwu (Homalco) Elders’ voices to a new generation – UBC News

Mar 12, 2025

Centuries-old stories from the Xwémalhkwu (Homalco) First Nation have found a new life in comic form in Xwémalhkwu Hero Stories: A Graphic Novel, set for its Vancouver launch at the University of British Columbia on March 12.

Led by Homalco First Nation (HFN), and journalist Tchadas Leo (Homalco and Stillaguimish Tribe of Indians), the project brought together Indigenous graphic artists Alina Pete (Nehiyaw from Little Pine First Nation in Saskatchewan), Valen Onstine (Nehiyaw and Dane-zaa) and Gord Hill (Kwakwaka’wakw) to visually interpret archival audio recordings of Homalco Elders.

The recordings, which were also turned into a mini podcast featuring 11 Homalco Elders, capture memories of life in the HFN’s traditional territory in Bute Inlet, with Elders sharing their childhood experiences, traditional customs and Coast Salish history.

Read More: https://news.ubc.ca/advisory/xwemalhkwu-homalco-hero-stories-graphic-novel-vancouver-launch/