Metro Vancouver Park Renamed to Reflect Indigenous History

Tsleil-Waututh Nation Chief Jen Thomas says the name change is important to recognize the group’s history in the area.

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A Metro Vancouver park has been renamed to include the site’s indigenous name, which officials say will better reflect the history of the area.

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Belcarra Regional Park at Burrard Inlet in Metro Vancouver will also have the indigenous name of təmtəmíxʷtən, which according to local First Nations translates to “the greatest place for all people”.

The Metro Vancouver Regional District says the park and area were the site of the largest ancestral village in the country.

Tsleil-Waututh Nation Chief Jen Thomas says the name change is important to recognize the group’s history in the area.

In February 2020, the nation and the regional district signed an agreement that formalized an ongoing collaboration between the two groups, and the name change is one of the projects.

Sav Dhaliwal, Chairman of the Metro Vancouver Board of Directors, says in a statement that the district is pleased to raise more awareness of the nation’s history in the area.

The park’s signage will be changed over the next several months to reflect the new name.

“Through our traditional name, language, and artwork present in the park, Tsleil-Waututh is putting our nation’s face on the territory, demonstrating to our next generation the importance of being stewards of our lands and waters,” he said. the administrative head. says Officer Ernie George in the written statement.