Reclaiming HBC’s Legacy in BC

 Indigenous-Led Businesses & Projects Reclaiming HBC’s Legacy in BC

1. The Vancouver HBC Store Reclamation – Tsawwassen First Nation & SFU Partnership

• In 2022, the Hudson’s Bay building in downtown Vancouver was sold to an Indigenous-led development group.
• The plan is to transform the space into a cultural, business, and educational hub that supports Indigenous economic sovereignty.
• This marks a major shift, as land once used for colonial trade is now in the hands of Indigenous leaders.

2. Mobilize Waskawewin (Fashion & Activism)

• Mobilize Waskawewin is an Indigenous-led fashion collective that reclaims the infamous HBC blanket.
• They redesign the blankets into powerful fashion statements, challenging their colonial history while celebrating Indigenous strength.
• Their work represents cultural reclamation—turning a symbol of colonialism into one of resistance and pride.

3. Indigenous Artists Reclaiming HBC Symbols

• KC Adams (Métis) – Incorporates HBC imagery in art to critique its role in colonization.
• Kent Monkman (Cree) – Uses HBC blankets in paintings to highlight Indigenous survival.
• Sonny Assu (Kwakwaka'wakw) – Reworks colonial artifacts, including HBC symbols, into modern Indigenous storytelling.

4. The Land Back Movement & Indigenous-Led Economic Growth

• The Squamish Nation's Sen̓áḵw Project in Vancouver is one of Canada’s largest Indigenous-led housing developments, symbolizing economic resurgence.
• Many Indigenous nations in BC are actively reclaiming land that was once controlled by HBC and other colonial institutions.

---

How You Can Support & Share Indigenous Perspectives

• Feature Indigenous artists and businesses on your blog and social media.
• Promote Indigenous-owned brands that are reclaiming HBC imagery in ethical ways.
• Encourage readers to support Indigenous-led land reclamation efforts.