Indigenous musicians singing and drumming at the Awards of Excellence

Indigenous communities

Vancouver has the third-largest population of Indigenous peoples in Canada, after Winnipeg and Edmonton.

In addition to three Coast Salish Nations who are indigenous to this area, the city is also home to First Nations, Métis, and Inuit from all over the country.

City staff play an important role in helping our Indigenous communities gain access to services, overcome barriers, and have a voice in civic government.

They also bring groups together to explore opportunities, build networks, and increase cross-cultural understanding.

Indigenous community resources

Year of Reconciliation

In partnership with Reconciliation Canada, we supported a Year of Reconciliation.

Community partnerships

City staff help ensure Indigenous community members can access services and have a voice in municipal government.

Dialogues Project

The Dialogues Project was convened to increase understanding, and strengthen Indigenous and immigrant/non-Indigenous relations.

Inventory of services, issues, and initiatives

A resource for Vancouver’s Indigenous communities with details of relevant activities, issues, and organizations.

Get a free copy of the Dialogues Project book

Vancouver Dialogues: First Nations, Urban Aboriginal and Immigrant Communities records the Dialogues Project’s journey, which includes dialogue circles, cultural exchange visits, community research, and youth and elders programs.

Download the book (5 MB)

Indigenous health, healing, and wellness

The Aboriginal Health, Healing, and Wellness in the Downtown Eastside (DTES) Study is a snapshot of an enquiry into traditional, spiritual, and cultural supports and services being offered in the DTES.

Executive summary PDF file (2 MB)

Full report (7 MB)

Supporting survivors and families during the National Inquiry

In April 2017, the City’s Urban Indigenous Peoples’ Advisory Committee convened a meeting to understand how to best support those involved with the National Inquiry into murdered and missing Indigenous women and girls. The meeting identified priorities and areas of need.