Each year on July 1, communities across British Columbia gather to mark Canada Day with celebration, reflection, and renewed commitment to what makes this province—and this country—strong: its people. From the mountain towns of the Kootenays to the beaches of Vancouver Island, Canada Day reminds us that we are stronger together, and that diversity, respect, and shared purpose are at the heart of what it means to be Canadian.
British Columbia is home to over 200 First Nations and a vibrant mix of cultures and languages from around the world. In Richmond, you’ll hear Cantonese, Tagalog, and Punjabi as you walk through the streets. In Prince Rupert, you might watch a Nisga’a or Ts’msyen artist carving a traditional mask while newcomers share homemade food at a community potluck. In Victoria, people gather at the Legislature to hear live music, including Indigenous drumming and local multicultural performances. These celebrations are more than just entertainment—they are a reflection of the many stories, struggles, and contributions that build a stronger province.
A powerful metaphor shared by Indigenous leader, Honourable Steven Point (Xwĕ lī qwĕl tĕl) and former Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia shares the need to “paddle together” towards progress. We are all in the same canoe. Whether we are First Nations, settlers, immigrants, or refugees, we share these lands and waters—and if we paddle together, we move forward together. Progress requires unity, cooperation, and mutual respect.
As we celebrate, it’s also important to reflect. Canada Day in BC does not come without complexity. The history of colonization, residential schools, and ongoing injustices must be acknowledged. In places like Kamloops and Williams Lake, the discoveries of unmarked graves have deepened public understanding of the painful legacy Indigenous communities continue to carry. That’s why Canada Day should also be a moment of truth and reconciliation—a chance to listen, learn, and act.
Many communities are already leading the way. The City of Vancouver has integrated cultural protocol with local Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations into its civic celebrations. Powell River, now exploring a name change to better reflect Indigenous history and relationships, is an example of how we can move forward with respect. In small and large ways, British Columbians are beginning to align our celebrations with a deeper sense of inclusion and accountability.
And through it all, the contributions of everyday people continue to shape this province: the Filipino care workers in Surrey keeping elders safe; the Syilx language teachers in the Okanagan preserving knowledge for future generations; the refugee family in Kelowna opening a small café and creating jobs; the Haida weaver in Masset keeping tradition alive while inspiring new generations of artists.
So, as we celebrate Canada lets recognize each other’s stories, and paddle forward as one, there’s no limit to where we can go—together.
BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.