What better way to mark Indigenous Awareness Week than by getting out into the community, listening, learning, and celebrating Indigenous cultures firsthand?
Across BC this May, there are opportunities for ISSofBC staff and clients to experience Indigenous art, storytelling, performances, exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events that highlight the rich histories, resilience, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.
Whether you attend a gallery exhibition, community gathering, author talk, market, or cultural workshop, every experience is a chance to deepen understanding and strengthen connections on the lands we now share together.
Vancouver
- Visit the Inuit Gallery of Vancouver to explore one of the world’s leading collections of Inuit and Northwest Coast Indigenous art, including carvings, prints, jewelry, and cultural storytelling through art.
- Explore Indigenous cultural programming and events through Indigenous Tourism BC, featuring workshops, performances, markets, storytelling events, and tours happening across the Lower Mainland this month. (Indigenous Tourism BC)
Surrey
- The Museum of Surrey continues to feature Indigenous-focused exhibits, artist showcases, and educational programming connected to Indigenous awareness and cultural learning throughout May.
Burnaby, Coquitlam, New Westminster & Maple Ridge
- Libraries, civic centres, and cultural organizations across these communities are hosting Indigenous author talks, educational displays, carving and weaving workshops, film screenings, and community learning opportunities throughout May.
- Many municipalities are also recognizing the traditional territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, Tsleil-Waututh, Kwantlen, Katzie, and q̓ic̓əy̓ (Qayqayt) First Nations through public programming and educational initiatives this month.
Prince George
- Aboriginal Housing Society of Prince George continues its regular “Coffee with Elders” gatherings throughout May, creating opportunities for community connection, learning, and dialogue with Indigenous Elders. (ahspg.ca)
- Lheidli T’enneh First Nation has shared a May community events and programs calendar featuring cultural, wellness, and community activities throughout the month. (lheidli.ca)
- Prince George residents can also explore Indigenous and community-focused events through Tourism Prince George Events and Indigenous Tourism BC Events. (Indigenous Tourism BC)
Ways to participate
- Attend a local Indigenous event or exhibit
- Support Indigenous artists, authors, and businesses
- Learn about the Nations whose lands we live and work on
- Listen to Indigenous stories and perspectives
- Share what you learn with family, friends, colleagues, and clients.
For many newcomers, Indigenous Awareness Week is an important opportunity to better understand the histories, cultures, and communities that are foundational to Canada. At ISSofBC, we encourage everyone to take part, stay curious, and continue learning together.
If you attend an event, please send your story and photos to: communications@issbc.org.
Learn more about our Truth & Reconciliation Strategy: https://issbc.org/about/truth-and-reconciliation/
Learn more about our T & R history and culture in our video ‘Welcome to our Homelands’, written and directed by Kamala Todd: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NTyb0PI87Y4&feature=youtu.be
