Ground Breaks on Indigenous Cultural Hub in Nelson – The Nelson Daily

July 23 2023

The Tenth Street Campus Indigenous Gathering Space overlooking the West Arm of Kootenay Lake began to take shape in mid-July and will result in vital building blocks for cultural wellness, education and growth in the Nelson region.

A partnership between the City of Nelson, Selkirk College and regional Indigenous nations, the covered wooden outdoor gathering space will be completed in the autumn. Announced in March 2022 as part of the provincial government’s 150 Time Immemorial Program that’s administered by Heritage BC and First Peoples’ Cultural Foundation, a $220,000 grant was received to make the project a reality.

When finished, it will serve as both an Indigenous cultural gathering and ceremonial space for the entire community. It will be a central focus for community events, celebrations, performances and learning related to Indigenous history, education, truth, justice and reconciliation.

The location of the gathering space overlooks the traditional travel routes and gathering places for the Sinixt, Syilx and Ktunaxa peoples prior to colonial settlement. The first of its kind in Nelson, the beautiful new space is part of the municipality’s commitment to truth and reconciliation.

“The Indigenous Gathering Space is an exciting development for the City of Nelson as we advance on our truth and reconciliation journey,” says Mayor Janice Morrison.

Read More: https://thenelsondaily.com/news/ground-breaks-indigenous-cultural-hub-nelson