Git Hayetsk Dancers

Git Hayetsk means the people of the copper shield in Sm’algyax spoken by the Nisga’a, Tsimshian, and Gitxsan Nations. The dancers are bonded by their common ancestry to the Sm’algyak speaking peoples with distinctions in their family ties to the Haida, Tlingit, Haisla, and Musqueam Nations. The Git Hayetsk Dancers challenge themselves to learn and practice the artistry of dance, song composition, choreography, and regalia-making to the standards of wealth, power, and prestige embodied by the copper shield. With deep love and respect for their communities, they draw their strengths together to give life to the songs and dances of their ancestors as well as bring to life new ones that reflect their experiences as First Nations people today. The Git Hayetsk Dancers share  their songs and dances at ceremonial and public events in urban and rural communities through Canada, the US, and abroad.