Episode 02: The Haida Watchmen- Gaajiiaawa & James Williams

Aboard Maple Leaf Adventure’s Cascadia with Gaajiiaawa.

Gaajiiaawa (Linda Tollas) is a respected Haida Elder who has been deeply involved in sharing and preserving Haida culture. She participates on occasional expedition cruises through Haida Gwaii, where her presence and storytelling enrich the experience for travelers, offering a personal understanding of the Haida heritage and the significance of the ancient villages and remote beaches visited.

She is part of a group of dedicated individuals who graduated with a University of Northern British Columbia Diploma in First Nations Language, a testament to her commitment to learning and teaching the language, X̱aayda kil. This effort is crucial for the Haida Nation, as it strengthens cultural heritage and counters the effects of past assimilation policies. Gaajiiaawa’s role in this educational journey highlights the importance of language as a vessel for cultural identity and continuity among the Haida people. She serves as a keeper of knowledge and tradition, and her contribution is invaluable in keeping Haida culture vibrant for future generations.

James Williams at the Haida Gwaii Museum at Kay Llngagaay.

James Williams is a former Haida Watchman, and is currently a guide at the Haida Gwaii Museum, which is known for its extensive collection of Haida historical objects, contemporary art, archives, and natural history collection. The museum offers a rich experience of Haida culture, blending Haida knowledge with western science, art, and politics.