Elder Səlíʔukʷ Mary Ann Thomas

Səlíʔukʷ, known widely as Mary Ann Thomas, embodies the values of caring, creativity, and courage through a lifetime of service to Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities alike. For decades, she has been a deeply respected Knowledge Keeper whose cultural, spiritual, and community leadership has touched countless individuals and institutions across Coast Salish territories and beyond. 

The daughter of Hazel Henry (Cowichan) and Louie Charlie (Tsartlip), Mary Ann was raised in a large extended family, learning ancestral teachings most especially from her father, who taught her that “our lives aren’t ours—we are dedicated to the people.” This principle has guided her life’s work. Through her marriage to the late Esquimalt Nation hereditary chief Andy Thomas, Mary Ann further expanded her responsibilities, providing cultural and spiritual care to Nation members and representing Coast Salish traditions in the wider community for more than three decades. 

A devoted mother, grandmother, and matriarch, Mary Ann created a warm and inclusive home for children, youth, and visitors: “all her relations,” whether related by ancestry or not. Her generosity extended across cultures, always grounded in respect and compassion.

Mary Ann is a highly respected Knowledge Keeper within Lekwungen communities and far beyond. She has devoted many years to Bighouse and Shaker Church activities, often travelling for extended periods to provide cultural and spiritual support, including across the Canada–U.S. border. She continues to pass down rare and sacred Knowledge to those she mentors in her family and community. 

She is a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, conducted protocol activities for Sneq’wa e’lun (Blue Heron House) to open at Royal Roads in a good way, and has been involved with Orange Shirt Day as Knowledge Keeper and Elder. 

Royal Roads University has been especially fortunate to benefit from Mary Ann’s guidance and leadership. She has supported Indigenous education and student services from the outset, advised senior leadership, and conducted numerous ceremonies to ensure land, buildings, and communities were approached in a good way. Mary Ann Thomas remains a profound source of inspiration—an unwavering exemplar of service, humility, and care for future generations.

She is also frequently called upon by governments, educational institutions, and community organizations, including the British Columbia Legislative Assembly, where she has conducted ceremonies and shared Knowledge for over a decade.