On a crisp, sunny day in January in Whitehorse, Carissa Waugh (Ékè Éwe) collaborated with CBC’s Creator Network and CBC North to film her narrative. This project marks the debut of a series showcasing Indigenous women who rekindle their connections to the evolving landscape through beadwork and hide tanning.
Following a decline in salmon runs, Carissa Waugh turned to beadwork as a means of advocacy. Waugh, also known as Ékè Éwe, expressed her desire to advocate for the voiceless salmon using her platform. Her latest creation, “Atsua Ku,” pays tribute to her late grandmother’s camp and the cherished memories of summers spent there along the Yukon River.
As a member of Kwanlin Dün First Nation (Crow Clan) and Taku River Tlingit First Nation (Dog Salmon Clan), Waugh’s family ceased fishing when salmon numbers plummeted in the Yukon River over ten years ago. This disruption not only affected her family but also jeopardized longstanding relationships between various First Nations and the salmon species.
Despite a slight increase in Yukon River chinook numbers in recent years, the species continues to face challenges primarily due to climate change. The significance of “Grandma’s camp,” or Atsua Ku, symbolizes a legacy of knowledge and tradition passed down through generations.
Inspired by a deep sense of loss for the salmon and her grandparents’ traditions, Waugh found solace in creating intricate salmon pins. Through her unique beadwork, paintings, and storytelling, Waugh embarked on a journey of “artivism,” blending art and activism to raise awareness and foster reconnection with salmon and Indigenous heritage.
One pivotal moment for Waugh was her involvement as a Reconnection Vision Fellow, tasked with designing a climate action plan for Yukon First Nations. This experience propelled her into global climate advocacy efforts, where she continues to use her beadwork as a tool for decolonizing spaces and creating a safe environment for Indigenous youth.
Last summer, Waugh participated in the Shakaat artist residency program at the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre, where she crafted “Atsua Ku” – a striking piece symbolizing familial connections and future generations’ prosperity. This artwork, displayed at the Cultural Centre, underlines Waugh’s commitment to strengthening the bond between salmon and people while preserving traditions for the next generations.
Through a short film produced with Ptarmigan Creative and CBC’s Creator Network, Waugh shares the story of “Atsua Ku,” reflecting her dedication to fostering mutual care between humans and salmon. She hopes to inspire a shift in perception regarding salmon, urging people to recognize their intrinsic value beyond mere sustenance.
The collaboration with the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre and contributions from Julien Green and Sarah Xenos added depth and authenticity to this meaningful project, emphasizing the importance of preserving cultural heritage and environmental stewardship.