Now in its fourth year, the BC Reconciliation Award recognizes excellence in the area of reconciliation with Indigenous peoples in the province of BC. It aims to showcase leadership in reconciliation so others will follow on the journey forward.
The BC Reconciliation Award is a partnership program between the BC Achievement Foundation and The Office of the Lieutenant Governor. It draws inspiration form the work of the Honourable Steven Point [Xwĕ lī qwĕl tĕl], 28th Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, and a founder of the Award. His hand-carved red cedar canoe, Shxwtitostel, currently on display at the BC Legislature buildings, was created as a symbol of reconciliation, with the understanding that “we are all in the same canoe” and must “paddle together” to move forward.
“Reconciliation serves as the foundation for forging meaningful connections and closing the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. Through acknowledging historical injustices and highlighting transformative initiatives, we inspire others to follow a similar path,” said Cloy-e-iis, Judith Sayers, board member of the BC Achievement Foundation. “As we step into the fourth year of the BC Reconciliation Award, we call for submission of nominations for the award program to help share the efforts of individuals and communities.”
In honour of this legacy, each years’ recipients receive a print of a canoe paddle designed by the Polygon Award in First Nations Art Emerging Artist. The following artists have been commissioned by BC Achievement to design the paddle and share their understanding of the reconciliation journey:
Kwakwaka’wakw artist Cole Speck (2021);
Dene and Carrier beader Crystal Behn (2022); and,
Kwakwaka’wakw moccasin maker Jamie Gentry (2023)
The ongoing series of BC Reconciliation Award paddles will be displayed in Government House.
Six extraordinary individuals and organizations were recognized in 2022 as recipients of this award. Their exceptional leadership, integrity, respect and commitment to furthering reconciliation, was honoured along with the 2021 recipients at an inaugural ceremony at Government House in Victoria.
“Nominating individuals and organizations for the BC Reconciliation Award is a powerful testament to collective pledges to healing, unity, and understanding. My hope is that this recognition continues to inspire positive change and strengthens the bonds of reconciliation in our province. As a juror and past recipient of the BC Reconciliation Award, I am humbled and honoured to witness and be a part of the transformative power of reconciliation efforts in British Columbia and encourage you to nominate those who are making a difference, change is transformative and we all must to our part,” said Chief/Kukpi7 Rosanne Casimir, former recipient and 2023 Selection Committee member.
Nominations open November 15, 2023 – January 31, 2024
Nominations for the BC Reconciliation Award are now open and can be submitted online at bcachievement.com until January 31, 2024. An independent jury panel of Indigenous Elders and leadership, which includes program alumni, adjudicate the submissions.
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