June is National Indigenous History Month, an opportunity for us all to honour the stories and contributions of Indigenous Peoples, who have lived on – and cared for – these lands since time immemorial, and for us here on Granville Island, specifically the distinct histories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) Indian Band, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) Nation, and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nation. We look forward to sharing these stories leading up to National Indigenous People Day on June 21st.
Art work by Skundaal, a Haida artist and master carver who also goes by Bernie Williams (Gul-Giit-Jaad; Golden Spruce Woman). She is of St’langng Jaanas/Laanas clan in Haida Gwaii. As a long time Downtown Eastside resident she is a passionate advocate against the discrimination, abuse, sexual assault, human trafficking, and exploitation against Indigenous and 2SLGBTQ+ women and girls.
