E! UA MALILIU TOA! UA MAUMAU AUPEGA O LE TUA! Alu ia male manuia lau malaga Chief Andy! Fa’amaise atu le Atua i le tina male fanau, fa’apea lou aiga! uo ma e masani male mamalu o ou tagata nu’u!
We wish to express our deepest respect and gratitude for the late Chief Andy Thomas, hereditary leader of Esquimalt Nation and knowledge keeper. We are forever grateful for Chief Andy’s generosity in time and wisdom, and for how he taught us to do our work in a good way — even guiding us when we made mistakes with laughter and humility. His family and nation are held close to our hearts as they navigate this deep loss.
Chief Andy was a great leader. We deeply admire his lifelong commitment to raising awareness of the injustices done to his people, and to ensuring that the mistakes of history never be repeated again.
Having worked closely with Chief Andy on youth leadership projects, we particularly remember Chief Andy’s fierce advocacy for the youth of his nation. He held an intense compassion, loyalty and pride for each and every youth, and it was clear to us that they brought him the utmost joy.
We are thankful to have worked with this great leader, and honored to have learned from him.
Thank you, Chief Andy Thomas. You will be deeply missed in our community.