VIDEO: Dr. Síyamíyatelíyót and the journey of Halq’eméylem at UFV

When Dr. Síyamíyatelíyót (Elizabeth Phillips) received an Indspire Award recognizing her lifelong dedication to Halq’eméylem language revitalization, she chose to turn the honour outward. Instead of keeping the award for herself, Dr. Síyamíyatelíyót gifted it to Halq’eméylem language students at the University of the Fraser Valley, encouraging them to carry the language forward. The gesture reflects the heart of the work at UFV: learning rooted in community, responsibility, and the understanding that language survives when it is shared, taught, and lived by the next generation. The award now lives in Room D137 where most of the Halq’eméylem language classes are held and students can witness it as they study.