Canada 150+ events in Vancouver honouring First Nations culture and history

by Nancy Baye

In B.C., a unique symbol appears on some literature about Canada’s 150th birthday. This plus (+) symbol is intended to acknowledge Indigenous history and the people who have lived here for much longer than 150 years. Vancouver is built on the unceded territory of the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations (the government also acknowledges the Métis Nation). These three Host Nations have granted permission for the Canada 150+ events and are collaborating in their development. There are plenty of Canada 150+ events honouring First Nations culture and history. Everyone is welcome! [Photo credit: Tourism Vancouver/Nelson Mouellic]

The Coast Salish peoples consider the water to be at the heart of their territories. Canoes have long enabled their travel and fishing, and it remains an important symbol. A group of paddlers – from First Nations plus several Public Services Agencies and youth – will bring 30 canoes from the Sunshine Coast to Vancouver, over the course of 10 days. On July 14th, they will arrive at Vanier Park and request permission to land on the traditional territories of the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations. Everyone is welcome to join the celebration and afternoon feast, before the canoes head to Ambleside.

Celebrating nine days of Indigenous and diverse arts and culture, this festival takes place July 22-30. There will be musical performance by Canadian icons Buffy Sainte-Marie, Chantal Kreviazuk, DJ Shub, Crystal Shawanda, Kinnie Starr and many more. Other events include the first Indigenous Fashion Week and a 3-Host Nation Day (with a pancake breakfast, storytelling, NFB-curated series of short films and more). Margo Kane, the artistic director of the festival, has created daily themes, including honouring elders, matriarchs to youth, warriors, and friends. All themes are explored through cultural presentations: films, theatre, staged readings, workshops on carving and weaving, a speaker series, food vendors and artisan displays.

On September 24th, join people of all ages and abilities, all cultures and communities, on the Reconciliation walk, created by Chief Dr. Robert Joseph, O.B.C. The first walk in 2013 was conceived as a healing tool among Indigenous peoples and all Canadians from the legacy of Indian residential schools. The 2017 walk, about four kilometres through the city, is again meant to be a healing tool, and a chance to unite as all Canadians move forward. The event begins at Cambie and Georgia Streets at 9 am and ends at Pender and Carrall Streets around 2 pm. All are invited to join, to learn more about reconciliation and to walk forward together.

Canada’s big birthday is more than a celebration. Let’s begin by honouring, acknowledging and offering gratitude to Indigenous peoples as we stand together on this great land.