Xa Xa Téméxw Swáyel/Sacred Earth Day 2026
NOTE ABOUT PROTOCOL: Since its inception in 2019, Good Medicine Songs (GMS) follows the mandate that our songs, stories and learning resources are made available free to the community. This protocol was established by our GMS Family, including Elders and Language and Cultural Carriers: Dr. Siyamiyateliyot Elizabeth Phillips, Dr. T’it’elem Spath Eddie Gardner, Dr. Lolehawk Laura Buker, Xótxwes Jonny Williams and the late Dr. Stelomethet Ethel Gardner; and Singer/Songwriters Holly Arntzen and Kevin Wright.
We are deeply grateful to our sponsors, Tire Stewardship BC and Interchange Recycling, SD 34 (Abbotsford) Indigenous Education, City of Mission Parks, Recreation & Culture, Abbotsford Culture City Program Series who make it possible to offer this program free of charge to teachers, students and community... Aaand to the beautiful staff and students in our participating schools for providing the voices and the energy to help make this all work!
Xa Xa Téméxw Swáyel/Sacred Earth Day concerts pay respect to the idea that “every day is Earth Day.”
Ey Stélmexw St’elt’ílem/Good Medicine Songs will perform with student choirs from local schools. In the audience will be teachers who have signed up their classes for this free musical field trip, along with family and community members. The songs weave together themes of Halq’eméylem language revitalization, reconciliation, and taking action for Earth stewardship by reducing waste.
April 9, 2026 – Clarke Theatre – Mission
Featuring students from Ecole Christine Morrison Elementary
June 9, 2026 – Matsqui Centennial Auditorium – Abbotsford
Featuring students from Barrowtown, Ten-Broeck and Dormick Park Elementary Schools
On this page you’ll find resources for learning the six songs in the concert—the MP3s (download free), live concert videos, action videos, audio glossaries (will help with pronunciation of the Halq’eméylem), and lyrics.
LYRICS
Xótxwes & Holly - a deeper look into pronunciation
for Step in the Right Direction
These videos will help students learn the actions for the songs in the concert.
Some live concert videos to enjoy!
More resources to discover
WANT A GOOD LAUGH FOR YOU AND YOUR CLASS? Witness our good friend, Stageboy, attempt to recycle old tires and perform an oil change in these humourous skits brought to you by our long time supporters,
Tire Stewardship BC and Interchange Recycling (formerly BC Used Oil Management Association.)
KIDS JUST LOVE STAGEBOY!