The Department of Central, Eastern, and Northern European Studies (CENES) celebrates the publication of Xwémalhkwu Hero Stories: A Graphic Novel, a collaborative project led by the UBC Comics Studies Cluster, Education without Borders, three Indigenous artists, and the Homalco First Nation.
Supported by CENES faculty member Dr. Biz Nijdam, who directs the UBC Comics Studies Cluster, and led by Homalco reporter and media personality Tchadas Leo, this project reflects the department’s commitment to advancing community-engaged scholarship that bridges academia and lived experience.
The graphic novel is based on recordings of Homalco Elders and features three stories illustrating historic Coast Salish moments. The comics were created by Indigenous artists Alina Pete, Valen Onstine, and Gord Hill, whose art conveys the cultural depth and resilience of the Homalco people. This project exemplifies how storytelling can serve as a powerful tool for reconciliation and education.
In 2023, members of the project team, including Dr. Nijdam, participated in a site visit to Bute Inlet, the traditional territory of the Homalco people. This immersive experience provided vital insights into the land and culture that shaped the stories, fostering a unique connection between the creators and the community.
“This project is a testament to the power of collaboration,” said Dr. Nijdam at the book launch in Campbell River on November 22, 2024. “Through comics, we can share stories that are deeply rooted in tradition while inspiring a broader understanding of Indigenous history and knowledge.”
The graphic novel will be celebrated through four book launches in 2025 to be held at UBC Vancouver and on Vancouver Island. In addition, the project team is developing pedagogical materials to integrate the stories into K-12 classrooms, ensuring that Homalco history reaches students across the province and beyond.
For updates on the book launches and related initiatives, visit www.comics.ubc.ca.
Any individual or organization interested in purchasing the book is asked to reach out to the Homalco First Nation directly: heroes@homalco.com.
This project was co-funded by the Education without Borders, UBC Comics Studies Cluster, the Narratives Group in the UBC Centre for Migration Studies, the UBC Community Engagement Office, and the UBC Public Humanities Hub.
