A group of First Nations children from the Squamish Nation captivated the attention of inquisitive grizzly bears during a visit to Grouse Mountain in Metro Vancouver. The children, aged between 10 and 11, were at the popular resort that features a grizzly bear sanctuary where tourists can observe these elusive creatures. They performed the traditional “Grizzly Bear Song,” composed by hereditary chief Ian Campbell, attracting the bears to the sanctuary fence.
In a viral video capturing the moment, the bears emerged from the bushes to observe the six young drummers as they sang about their bond with nature and the bears. The video gained global attention, with both the children and their coordinator expressing pride in showcasing their heritage to a wider audience.
One of the children, Jonah Nahanee, shared his excitement at the close encounter, emphasizing the joy of participating in cultural activities. Thomas Jacobs, another participant, described the experience as the closest he had ever been to a grizzly bear, highlighting his passion for singing songs that celebrate his culture.
Jennifer Nahanee, the coordinator of the group known as the Proud Little Warriors, revealed that the children regularly practice Squamish language and music, demonstrating a deep understanding of the songs’ significance. Nahanee expressed emotional pride in witnessing the children’s progress and the impact of their performance.
The video, filmed by Nahanee, garnered over a million views, receiving support from diverse global audiences. She emphasized the importance of preserving and sharing their language and culture, reaffirming the presence and resilience of the Squamish Nation.
