University of British Columbia (UBC) Botanical Garden is located on the traditional and unceded land of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) First Nation. The 2019 UN International Year of Indigenous Language draws attention to the critical global loss of indigenous languages and highlights the urgent need to preserve, revitalize, and promote them. As stewards of plant and biodiversity conservation, gardens are well positioned to engage their guests and the broader public in understanding important connections between plants, people, language, and culture. UBC Botanical Garden is working with the Musqueam Language Department to promote public awareness of Halkomelem, the Musqueam language, history, and culture. Participants will take from this session an understanding of how gardens could explore biocultural programming to align their collections and educational programs to support Indigenous communities and culture.

Presenter: 

T. Moreau, B. Stormes, University Of British Columbia Botanical Garden, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; V. Campbell, xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) Indian Band, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; C. Sayer, VanDusen Botanical Garden, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada