Photograph Coursey of Sepass collection. The photograph shown is of Dr. Raley, Chief Sepass and his daughter Alice Sepass on the steps of Coqualeetza Indian Residential School.
Today, residential schools has become an entry point to tackle settler colonial-Indigenous relations and acts of colonialism. While Sepass adopted Methodist values, he did not leave his own ways behind. Helen Carr of Kwantlen (Fort Langley) First Nation shared that, Sepass would visit would often the Coqualeetza Indian Residential School, where he would interact and translate for the children (Carr, 1998). This a good example of how Sepass stayed in connection with the young Indigenous children during trying times.
P.T.A Meeting. Chilliwack Progress. January 11, 1939.
The hopeful words of any Indigenous leader facing colonialism, are likely to inspire others. By 1939, Sepass spoke in public settings about colonialism. He wanted to express himself, be a voice for the people. We see that Sepass did develop strong relationships with newcomers, and adopted the faith- it is not to say that Sepass left acts of colonialism, including assimilation in schools, un-challenged.
Sources
“P.T.A. Meeting” The Chilliwack Progress, January 11, 1939.https://theprogress.newspapers.com/image/43167986/
Additional Suggested Readings
“75th Anniversary of Sumas Church”, The Chilliwack Progress, June 26, 1940
       https://theprogress.newspapers.com/image/43171461/
Glavin, Terry. 2002. Amongst God’s Own. [Electronic Resource] : The Enduring Legacy of St. Mary’s Mission. 1st ed. DesLibris: Books Collection. New Star Books. https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=cat00744a&AN=ufv.1724736&site=eds-live.