The effects of a ban on a traditional First Nations ceremony that dates back to the 19th century are still being felt today. Sylvia McAdam (Saysewahum) traces how the potlatch ban is responsible for current patriarchal culture, arguing that men would steal away to the bush to practice the ceremonies while women would be left in their homes, policed by overseers by the government. This led to the exclusion of women from ceremonies and eroded their social status. Photo credit: Barefoots World
