Rediscovery
The Rediscovery program, founded by Thom in
1978, is a wilderness-cultural heritage program that brought together
Haida and non-native youths on Haida Gwaii (the Queen
Charlotte Islands) to discover the worlds within themselves, the cultural worlds between them and the wonders of the natural world around them. The program was immediately successful and
has been going strong for over three decades. Today Rediscovery programs operate in many locations throughout Canada and the world.
The
vision of the Rediscovery Foundation reflects Thom's environmental
vision.
"Rediscovery's goal is to promote cross-cultural understanding and global peace
by adopting traditional Indigenous People's values of respect for
oneself, other people and the natural environment."
Thom believes that much of the violence that exists in the world today
is "more than venting of political, social, and economic repression; it
is a desperate response of cultures and people simply trying to survive,
to be understood, to be respected."
These are not the standard summer camps where totem poles are propped in
front of tipis as part of Indian lore. Any Rediscovery participant
could tell you that such misrepresentations are as ridiculous as
displaying the Eiffel Tower in front of the Taj Mahal. Cultural
authenticity is integral to the Rediscovery experience. The
indigenous peoples who host and help develop these programs are members
of truly distinct nations with languages, religions, customs, and
traditions every bit as different from one another as are any two cultures
in Europe.
By drawing from the strength of native traditions, the wisdom of Elders,
a philosophy of respect and love for the land and each other, and with
a focus on the spirituality of all life, Rediscovery offers a new
direction for youth camps.
Rediscovery
Camp Locations
For more information about Rediscovery camps in your area or in other
parts of the world log onto www.rediscovery.org, or email: rediscovery@ykool.com
Address
Rediscovery International Foundation
#150 Montreal Street.
Victoria, BC
Canada V8V 1Y8
telephone/fax: (250) 380-2601
Books
Thom has written a book about the Rediscovery program. It is a
treasure trove of traditional ecological-centered games that can be
played with children and adults.
Rediscovery, Ancient Pathways - New
Directions
Online Photo Gallery
See photos of the Rediscovery program in
action. Note that the photo gallery opens in a new window. Close the photo gallery window when finished to return here.
Rediscovery Photo Gallery
