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Socialization

Prior to settlement, marriages were arranged between families and between communities. If a man was wealthy, a good provider and could esure that the women were taken care of, he was afforded the respect of taking on more than one wife. Often times, this was done by Higher Chiefs within the societies. This set up the inter-nation relationships and ensured that there was good repoire beween communities and between tribes.

The trading or taking on of wives within the societies would occur during inter tribal encampments. At this time, there would be demonstrations of abilities and skill through gaming and competition. The communities would come together to socialize in the true sense of the world. At this time, there would be no weapons or guard against one another.

Within the common community, parents would discuss the future of their children as husband and wife. Throughout the young peoples lives, the families would exchange gifts between families to maintain the agreement of the arrangement. The practice of arranged marriages ceased in the 1930's. As marriages were no longer arranged, courtship would occur at Social Gatherings between communities. Marriage became the decision of individuals.

If men were abusive to their wives, sisters or mothers, the man was disciplined by the wise men of the community. Women were disciplined if they brought their husband's name or his character in disrepute. The wise men would also deal with the women.

Upon settlement, many of the newcomers took up companions from the native communities. This established a long term relationship with the community to ensure survival but also provided newcomers access to the lands within the traditional territory. Once settlers had established themselves in the area, the Native women and the children were returned to the community. The settlers would bring in new wives from european countries to join them in this country.

After the invasion and attack by the Spaniards in the Similkameen Valley, it was decided within the community that the Similkameen people would not engage in relationships or marriage with Spaniards
.

There were a number of ceremonial practices that occurred over the duration of life. These included ceremonies for birth, rights of passage, name giving, vision quests, sundance, marriages, appointments of leaders, social protocols, warring, deaths etc.

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Sylvester McLean at sweatlodge in Chopaka
1970's
Chopaka BC Canada


Credits:
Lower Similkameen Indian Band