The gathering brought together Elders, youth, families, partners, and supporters to reflect on the resilience of the Semá:th community and to celebrate ongoing work to protect and steward this sacred site for future generations. Lightning Rock is a revered cultural site for the Semá:th people, understood as an ancestral burial site and a place of spiritual power and teaching. The site’s protection and respectful stewardship are essential to the well-being of Semá:th culture, identity, and intergenerational learning.

Gavin Domitter, Eau-Vive Heppenstall and Jill Stauber were honoured to attend the celebration. There were a few moments when the rain was so heavy, pounding on the long house roof that it was thunderous. As one Elder commented, the tears of their ancestors rained down in applause and joy, celebrating the Nation’s dedication to getting these lands back.