View source for Gwiikxw – Distribution of Gifts and Food

= Gwiikxw – Distribution of Gifts and Food =
''INITIATION DRAFT — Ayaawx Law page explaining the legal role of [[Gwiikxw]] in feasts and governance.''

== Core Meaning ==
'''[[Gwiikxw]]''' is the formal distribution of gifts, wealth, and food during the [[li’ligit]].  
It is not charity, generosity, or display.  
It is **law** — a required part of confirming truth, honouring witnesses, and completing the work of the feast.

Through [[Gwiikxw]], the host [[wilp]]:
* acknowledges every House present,
* confirms the truth of what has been spoken,
* pays witnesses for validating the event,
* restores balance after decisions or transfers,
* and strengthens relationships between Houses.

== Why Gwiikxw is Law ==
A feast without distribution is not complete.  
Words alone are not enough to make law.  
Truth must be witnessed, and witnesses must be honoured.

[[Gwiikxw]]:
* seals decisions,  
* closes disputes,  
* confirms transfers of names, titles, or land,  
* and ensures no wilp leaves feeling unseen or dishonoured.

If gifts are not properly distributed, the work of the feast remains unfinished.

== How Gwiikxw Works ==
Distribution follows strict order and protocol:

* The [[sigyidm hana̱'a̱]] and senior women guide the sequence.  
* The [[sigyidm hana̱'a̱]] announces the distribution.  
* The [[simgyaget]] and House members present the gifts.  
* Visiting Houses receive items according to rank.  
* Youth and helpers assist, learning their roles.

Each item distributed reflects:
* acknowledgement,  
* respect,  
* balance,  
* and completion.

== What is Distributed ==
Depending on region and occasion, [[Gwiikxw]] may include:
* blankets  
* salmon, oolichan, berries  
* household goods  
* feasting dishes  
* symbolic gifts  
* food boxes  
* wealth items associated with the event  

The value is not measured in dollars —  
it is measured in respect and recognition.

== Gwiikxw as Witness Payment ==
Witnesses validate truth.  
Gwiikxw honors and compensates them for carrying that truth out into the world.

Without witnesses, law is weak.  
Without payment, witnessing is incomplete.

== Relationship to Respect and Conduct ==
[[Gwiikxw]] reinforces:
* [[laxha]] (respect),  
* [[wila waal]] (proper behaviour),  
* and the responsibility to appear with dignity.

Those who refuse distribution, complain, or violate conduct disrupt ayaawx.

== Modern Relevance ==
Even today, distribution continues to hold legal weight:
* in name transfers  
* in settling disputes  
* in recognition of deaths, births, and marriages  
* in reaffirming relationships with neighbouring Houses  

It remains one of the strongest expressions of Tsm̱syen law.

== Notes ==
INITIATION DRAFT — To be expanded with local teachings, examples, seating orders, and House-specific practice.