Cedar Tree
"I grew up on the west coast of British Columbia, which is known for its towering red cedars. As a child, I remember learning about their importance to the Coast Salish people, and their many uses.
In high school, I gained a new appreciation for the western red cedar while spending a few nights in what is now known as Strathcona Provincial Park.
My friends and I decided we wanted to sleep in the forest, so we built a small lean-to against the roots of a large cedar that had fallen in a winter storm, covering the roof of our shelter with the tree’s water-resistant bark.
With just enough room to curl up, we were cold but remarkably dry. As an adult, whenever I see a cedar, I remember that night and how grateful I was to have the tree’s shelter as we slept." (Strathcona Provincial Park lies within the traditional territories of the Laichwiltach, Campbell River, Comox, Opetchesaht, Mowachaht/Muchalaht, and Ahousaht First Nations).
— Danielle Mayo