Chief Dan George Welcome Pole, 2010, by Zac George
Chief Dan George Welcome Pole, 2010, by Zac George

Resources for non-Indigenous people

First Peoples: A Guide for Newcomers (5 MB)

Read about the rich culture, diverse history, and experiences of Indigenous people in Canada and in Vancouver. This guide is designed to build greater understanding between non-Indigenous and Indigenous communities.

For those who are looking to learn more about Indigenous peoples and cultures, there are countless resources online, a few of which are featured below. We encourage you to seek out information to support your own learning and contribute to your own personal Reconciliation journey.

Indigenous language, art, and culture


Untitled (Crosswalk), 2019, by Robyn Sparrow

Plaza Naming Project

The City of Vancouver, Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh announced two new names for prominent public spaces downtown Vancouver.

First Peoples’ Map of BC

Discover the wealth of distinct Indigenous languages, art, and cultural heritage in BC.

Indigenous Storyteller in Residence

Follow Vancouver Public Library for events with the Indigenous Storyteller in Residence, Indigenous authors and poets.

Indigenous peoples in Canada

Vancouver Public Library curated a guide to learn about Indigenous peoples in Canada including online resources and book and DVD recommendations.

Carnegie’s V6Activities YouTube channel

Follow Carnegie’s V6Activities YouTube channel to learn Indigenous crafts and listen to stories from elders.

The Dialogues Project (4.5 MB)

The goal of the project was to build increased understanding and strengthened relations between Indigenous and immigrant/non-Indigenous communities.

Residential Schools and ongoing impacts

Residential schools

Find resources to learn about the residential school system in BC and Canada, and its lasting impacts on Indigenous people and communities.

Public events calendars

Find events that the City of Vancouver, Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation, and Vancouver Public Library produce, sponsor and support with grants or contributions. These calendars are updated regularly.

City events calendar Vancouver Public Library events calendar