Daily Gem Edith Newman, Blue Raven Gallery, Sooke BC

– by Jarvis Emerald

Proud of her family, and rightly so. Daily gem Edith Newman is the one who makes all the pieces talk in her family. A mother and wife to a very talented and blessed family, Edith nurtures and connects the things that are happening or need to happen with her family and community.

I first saw Edith at a dance class in the yoga center, but had not officially met her yet. It was through Katrina Kadoski‘s nomination that brought us to each other’s light of acknowledgement. Then we saw each other all over Sooke.

Edith, her husband Victor and family own and manage a small Native gallery, showcasing a variety of important cultural pieces from history. Along with the gallery the entire family is known in the community for their volunteering and talented contributions of art and singing, stories and more.

One notable piece by Edith’s son is the Witness Blanket which has claimed national status and is moving around Canada as we speak. It represents a story by remembering those Natives who were abused in the school system long ago and is bringing awareness to the events with hopes to provide some healing to the injustices.

I am honored to have met and now know Edith Newman and will continue to meet with getting to know her whole family as time goes on.

Thank you for being a Gem, Edith!