A mass immunization clinic kicked off at Nicola Valley Memorial Arena on Monday, April 12. The clinic seeks to vaccinate as many eligible Merritt citizens as possible against COVID-19.
On Sunday, prior to Monday’s opening, the clinic was blessed with a prayer and smudging lead by Indigenous Knowledge Keeper, Nkwala, Daniel L. Manuel from the Sylix Nation. Manuel shared wisdom about the custom of smudging and blessing by prayer.
“With the sage, we are asking the bad spirits to leave, and with the eagle feather we are calling in the good spirits,” said Manuel.
Tamara George was also on hand, representing the Nlaka’pamux Health Services Society as Executive Director. She thanked those present for taking part in the ceremony, which she views as an important bridge between traditional and modern medicine.