Celebrating Indigenous History Month
June is National Indigenous History Month. This is a month for all of us to recognize and celebrate the rich cultures, traditions, and contributions of Indigenous peoples. For us at Vancouver Farmers Markets, this month holds special meaning. The lands where we create vibrant and welcoming markets, where our vendors grow and harvest, and where our communities come together to experience joy of buying local, are the unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.
These lands have been cared for by Indigenous peoples for thousands of years. Throughout generations, First Nations communities developed sustainable ways of fishing, harvesting, and caring for the water bodies and soils of the Lower Mainland; practices that continue to shape how many food growers work today. As spaces rooted in local land and community, farmers markets are meaningful spaces to recognize and honour that enduring legacy.
Reconciliation isn’t a single month or a single gesture, it’s an ongoing commitment to creating spaces that are respectful and reflective of the Indigenous resilience and acknowledging the historical impacts of colonization to foster truth and reconciliation. We are grateful to be on this land, and we are committed to learning what it means to be good guests and good neighbours.
With National Indigenous Peoples Day being observed on June 21, coinciding with the summer solstice, VFM wishes everyone a June rooted in gratitude and understanding of Indigenous cultural ceremonies, and community gatherings.
