Students Honour Elders with Portraits

June 22, 2026

Chilliwack students shared their portraits of local Elders this week. The portraits are part of the Honouring Our Elders Portrait Project. The project brings students, Elders, artists, educators, Indigenous communities, and local leaders together. It recognizes the wisdom, contributions, and stories of Elders.

The Honouring Our Elders Legacy Project started at Smithers Secondary in 2005. Art teacher Perry Rath and his colleagues launched the project in northern BC. 

With Rath’s support and guidance, the Chilliwack School District developed its own version. The Indigenous Education Department and school art teachers collaborated to bring it to life. 

“Honouring Our Elders creates opportunities for meaningful dialogue between generations. Students engage with the families and friends of the Elders. They listen to personal stories and teachings, and learn about their contributions to the community,” said Donna’Lee Irwin. Irwin is an Indigenous Enhancement teacher in the district. 

Students unveiled the first portraits at G.W. Graham Secondary School on June 15. Lilah Gerrits and Taliyah McLeod's portraits were of Elder Violet George of Ch’íyáqtel (Tzeachten) and community member Lucy Fraser.

Two more portraits will be unveiled at Imagine High today - Monday, June 22. That event honours Elder Frieda George of Sxwoyeha:la (Squiala) and community member Kay Keding. Rylan Anglehart, Marlene Price, Miles Pereira, and ‘Silus’ Madilyn Marchesi created the portraits. 

The portraits will be permanently displayed G.W. Graham and Imagine High alongside plaques about the Elders.  

Photo courtesy of photography students at GWG.