Git Ksi Lisims Clans

The Git Ksi Lisims [people of the river Lisims] is a matrilineal group, structured within an exogamous, four-crest system: Wolf tribe, Raven tribe, Killerwhale tribe and Eagle tribe. Each member of the nation is born into one of these tribes.

Tribes are further subdivided into clans – wiln’aat’ahl, as are the Lax Gibuu, wolf tribe e.g. within this tribe are the Gitwiln’aak’i’l clan, Gisk’ansnaat clan, and the Gitwil’luu-yaxw clan.

A clan is subdivided by Wilp – Houses, each ranked according to birth lineage, with the Senior house in the ‘center’. E.g. Gitwiln’aak’i’l Clan into: Wilps Duuk, ‘Wilps K’eexkw’, and Wilps Gwingyoo.

Chieftainship

A chief’s place in the Git Ksi Lisims society and social order was ‘based on the wealth of his territory,’ and the ability of his clan to successfully make use of its resources.

To do this was not simply a matter of harvesting and preserving the harvest, but following the proper rules of conduct and respect toward people, animals, and the land according to our laws. Success was a reward for correct behavior toward both the material and spirit world.

Sim’oogit / Chiefs’ Title

Having a name means having a place in the society, having rights to territories, and having a history. One who holds the highest ranking title in one’s House is the Sim’oogit / Chief, and he is the delegated holder of all Wilp property.

Researched/written by: Moore Bros. Con. & Research
c/o Alan Moore-proprietor; email:  bonycreek@yahoo.ca