The figures on the Snuneymuxw house posts represent important cultural traditions of the Snuneymuxw First Nation, such as the sxwayxwuy dance. Traditions become even more significant when material culture is gone. This certainly would have been the case for the Snuneymuxw when vast quantities of their material culture were removed by collectors, anthropologists and museums at the turn of the 20th century.

In 1884, the Canadian Government began to ban potlatches and other First Nations ceremonies. Potlatches were outlawed with the intent to end ties to the traditional ways and integrate and assimilate First Nations further into European culture. The loss of traditions and material culture, coupled with the arrival of small pox epidemics, was a striking blow for the Snuneymuxw First Nation. It is a testament to the strength of the Snuneymuxw people that they have persevered and nurtured their distinct culture despite seemingly insurmountable odds.

It was not until 1951 that First Nations people were allowed to publicly hold potlatches again. Today potlatches take place in the Snuneymuxw community's Big House. They are most commonly held to name a young person or as a memorial for someone who has died.

At these ceremonies there are drumming and singing. When the Snuneymuxw First Nation is asked to participate in public events around Nanaimo, an Elder or person representing the community, will in many cases sing and drum a song. From book launches for revered Elders, to closing ceremonies for beloved lacrosse arenas, the Snuneymuxw share their culture with others, by drumming and singing in their native Island Hul'q'umin'um.

In the absence of objects like house posts, the drum is a living link between the past and present of the Snuneymuxw First Nation. Drumming and singing the old songs in their traditional Island Hul'q'umin'um', is a way to honour ancestors, and ensure a living culture for Snuneymuxw children and generations to come.