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.
