CEO MESSAGE
I remember the first time I took my family to New York City, when upon exiting the arrivals terminal at LaGuardia, a well-dressed man walked up to us and said, “Do you need a taxi?” Not thinking anything of it, the five of us followed the guy to his limo and piled in. After he loaded our luggage, the driver opened the door and told us he would be right back. Several minutes later the left rear door opens again and in steps a young woman who was also en route to NYC. It took a few seconds to realize the dude who approached us was operating his limousine service illegally, skirting regulations, and usurping legitimate taxi drivers that had been waiting in line to pick up fares. By this point it was too late for us to exit the vehicle.
With a full limo, the driver proceeded to take the Judas clan, along with the stranger, to our respective hotels in midtown Manhattan…although he took a roundabout route to avoid tunnel and bridge tolls. Ultimately, we arrived safely and the cost was reasonable, but it was my first exposure to rogue operators…which by the way you can find in most major cities. Come to think of it, perhaps it was actually ride-hailing in its earliest form.
As you know, taxis are plentiful in the Big Apple even though at one time the cost of a medallion exceeded $1m…that is until ride-sharing came on the scene about 10 years ago. Similarly, when taxis and limos were the only options for passenger directed vehicles in BC, licenses here were also at a premium, not only price-wise but even to obtain one since there were limits on the number the province doled out to cab companies.
The vehicles-for-hire sector has changed dramatically over the last 10 years, mostly notably when the province (within the Passenger Transportation Act) approved ride-hailing services in 2018, which allowed Transportation Network Services (TNS) to enter the market and operate legally alongside taxis and limos but only in certain communities. For that matter, taxi services are not ubiquitous throughout BC either. Hence the reason government appointed a Special Committee to Review Passenger Directed Vehicles (taxis, ride-hailing) to look at look at issues like supply, safety, services in small, rural or remote communities, impacts on traffic congestion, among others.
The Committee’s report was released last week and makes 34 recommendations to improve accessibility for persons with disabilities, ensure effective regulation that works for drivers, companies, and passengers, and enhance data collection and access.
The Committee heard from 66 groups, including TIABC (and our member – the BC Taxi Association) with recommendations on how to fix or improve vehicle-for-hire transportation services for residents and visitors. A few of our suggestions were put forward by the Committee for consideration, including (quotes):
On the issue of existing boundaries and the differences between TNS and taxis, “TIABC suggested that regionalization of taxi services and cross-boundary pick-ups and drop-offs of passengers would ensure that all drivers have the same ability to provide services wherever and whenever a passenger requests a ride.” The Committee recommended that the province prioritize a detailed analysis of the potential impacts of harmonizing the operating boundaries of TNS and taxis, including examining deadheading and any effects on the provision of services to outlying or neighbouring communities.
On the issue of licenses for all vehicle-for-hire drivers, “TIABC supported the use of Class 4 licenses for taxi and ride-hailing drivers since they both provide similar services. If government were to move to a Class 5 license for TNS, the association was of the view that the same should apply to taxis, provided that drivers have a minimum of five years of safe driving experience, no violations, and appropriate training.” The Committee recommended that government review driver licensing requirements to ensure public safety, driver professionalism, and equitability between taxis and TNS while lowering barriers to entry.
On the issue of labour standards and working conditions, “TIABC recommended requiring TNS companies to improve safety standard protections and provide workplace injury compensation through Occupational Health and Safety Regulation and WorkSafeBC while classifying ride-hailing drivers as independent contractors.” The Committee proposed that the province continue to engage on and monitor the labour standards of ride-hailing drivers, including increasing the collection of data on working conditions, wages, and hours of work, to ensure the labour standards framework is fair and meets the needs of workers and the industry.
On the issue of additional transportation services, “TIABC stated that ride-hailing should not be permitted to operate in smaller communities where taxi service is readily available or should only be allowed in situations where there are not enough taxis to meet demand during peak times”. The Committee recommended that government explore how to better support the viability of smaller local TNS companies, including those operating in small, rural, and remote communities, including consideration for developing an alternative framework for these companies. The Committee also suggested that government take a holistic approach to improve transportation connectivity within and between communities in small, rural, and remote areas that recognizes their unique needs and includes viable passenger directed vehicle options in conjunction with other transportation modes.
The next step is for BC’s Passenger Transportation Board to consider and assess the potential impact of the Committee’s recommendations and work with partners in government to explore opportunities to implement the changes necessary to improve the system for passenger directed vehicles.
For the record (in case you’ve forgotten), TIABC is not against ride-hailing companies or services but maintains that a balanced approach to regulation is necessary to ensure the long-standing taxi industry can compete on a level playing field with the likes of Uber, Lyft and other service providers. More importantly, we continue to advocate to ensure that residents and visitors have access to the transportation services and options they need when they need it no matter where in the province.
The first time I visited New York City was in the mid-sixties as a kid when my family was in the process of moving to Germany. Prior to boarding the passenger liner SS United States, I was briefly kidnapped for ransom by a taxi driver. True story…best left for another day.
Walt Judas,
CEO, TIABC
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WGBC Fiscal 2025 Advocacy, Communications, and Marketing Operational Plan
Wine Growers British Columbia has shared its Fiscal 2025 Operational Plan. Amidst the trials faced by the BC wine industry over the past years, including wildfires, deep freezes, tourism bans, etc., advocacy and tourism have been set as priority focuses for this fiscal year.
This year, the plan is focused on five key Board-approved objectives:
- Objective 1 - Build a world-class brand for Wines of British Columbia
- Objective 2 - Position BC as a premier wine region with trade
- Objective 3 - Make BC wine country a benchmark for wine tourism
- Objective 4 - Strengthen wine industry leadership
- Objective 5 - Leverage government advocacy efforts
Learn more HERE.
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Worth Leadership Summit Summary
On May 13th, the inaugural Worth Leadership Summit took place in Vancouver. Women of Recreation, Tourism and Hospitality gathered to be inspired while addressing issues that need disruption. Industry leaders shared incredible perspectives with attendees, including men and allies who showed up to listen and learn. TIABC's Walt Judas was among the participants.
Read more HERE.
View Summit photos HERE.
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New Heath & Safety | go2HR Course
Workplace safety should be top of mind at all times. go2HR is unveiling a new asynchronous online training course tailored specifically for new and young workers in the tourism and hospitality sector. This training explores the foundational principles of workplace health and safety, covering topics like rights and responsibilities, hazard identification, emergency procedures, and building a positive safety culture. And it's completely FREE! Enroll today!
Register today HERE.
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Job Opportunity | Health & Safety Specialist
Do you value being a part of a highly engaged, collaborative and supportive team? Would you be interested in sharing your knowledge to empower employers to build safer workplaces across BC’s tourism and hospitality industry?
If you are an experienced Occupational Health & Safety (OHS) professional with a passion for people and a love of BC’s tourism and hospitality sector, the Health & Safety Specialist position with go2HR is a unique opportunity that could be a great fit for you!
Learn more about this opportunity and apply HERE.
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Meet Sandra Riches | ED of BC AdventureSmart
TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas and Sandra Riches, Executive Director of BC AdventureSmart, discuss her career path, the importance of outdoor education, and the importance of tourism to BC's outdoor adventure sector.
You can listen to the Voice of Tourism podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Check us out on Apple, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Amazon Music, Deezer, Podcast Addict and Podchaser. Or listen through the link below.
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Peter Pilarski | The Strategic Importance of Licensing Deals and Content Partnerships For DMOs in the Era of Large Language Models
"The recent landmark partnership between News Corp and OpenAI underscores a critical evolution in how large language models (LLMs) like GPT navigate the complexities of training on copyrighted data.This agreement exemplifies the growing significance of licensing deals and content partnerships, presenting a unique opportunity for various industries, including tourism, to leverage their high-quality data in innovative ways."
Read more HERE.
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Lac Le Jeune Resort Opens to the Public
Lac Le Jeune Resort has officially reopened to the public year-round under new ownership.
On May 16th, the resort celebrated its grand opening alongside tourism industry partners, colleagues, suppliers, and the owners’ family and friends. Approximately 30 people joined owners Monica Dickinson and Vivek Sharma of Polaris Advisory to share a few words, sample small bites, and witness the celebratory ribbon.
“Our opening has been an incredible milestone. Our team has worked so hard to ensure the guest experience is top notch and this weekend they helped to create memorable moments with playfulness and charm,” noted Dickinson. “We are committed to our mission to embrace the laid-back pace of the area while paying attention to the little details. Our curated experiences and personalized approach allow guests to focus on what Lac Le Jeune Resort is known for – relaxation, rejuvenation, and reconnection."
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Sustainability Awards | 2400 Motel
The 2400 Motel is proud to announce that they have been evaluated and awarded Silver Certification by Canada’s own GreenStep Sustainable Tourism. In addition, the 2400 Motel was presented with the Sustainability Champion Award from the BC Hotel Association at their 2024 Awards of Excellence Gala, representing the top talent in the industry. This award is a tremendous acknowledgement of the efforts made by the entire 2400 Motel team that these two accolades have been given.
"We are so proud of all the hard work undertaken by Kristian, General Manager, and the rest of the 2400 Motel Team, to achieve these sustainability recognitions" – Ralph Miller, president of Inntegrated Hospitality Management Ltd.
"We congratulate 2400 Motel for their commitment to more sustainable practices, as demonstrated through their recently awarded GreenStep Sustainable Tourism Silver certification, as well as the Sustainability Champion Award from the BC Hotel Association earlier this month" - Jenn Burling, GreenStep Director of Sustainable Tourism
For more information about the 2400 Motel click HERE.
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Would you like your image to appear in our weekly Postcards from BC feature? Contact deborah@tiabc.ca | |
Tourism Fernie
Tourism Fernie was officially established as a non-profit society in November 2007 and is a membership-based organization.
Tourism Fernie's purpose is executing effective tourism marketing, programs and projects that sustainably increase and manage local tourism revenue, visitation and economic benefits for Fernie and surrounding area.
Plan your trip today and learn more about Tourism Fernie HERE.
Would you like to be featured in our weekly Voice of Tourism, social channels or on our website? TIABC member testimonials provide visibility and exposure to the tourism industry and a wider audience for your business. If you want to be featured in an upcoming TIABC Voice of Tourism and other platforms, contact Deborah - deborah@tiabc.ca
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Become a Member in 2024
Your Membership is Important to Us!
We strongly encourage you to consider membership or renew your membership with TIABC in 2024 to support our important advocacy efforts on behalf of the entire visitor economy.
TIABC continues to identify your concerns, raise your voice, champion your needs, and push for support and programs while encouraging policy changes at both the provincial and federal level.
Contact info@tiabc.ca for more information, visit our website HERE or the link below.
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TIAC's Associate Program for TIABC Members
The Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) and the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) continue to offer TIABC members an opportunity to extend their membership. TIABC members in good standing can enrol in TIAC’s Associate Program FOR ONLY $25.
By visiting this link, you can become a TIAC Associate Member, enjoy access to a range of TIAC benefits and add your voice to National efforts.
Note: If you are already a TIAC associate member, you will receive a renewal notice before your anniversary date. If you are currently a full TIAC member, you already get enhanced advantages. You will continue to enjoy added benefits and savings over and above what is available to associate members, including the TIAC Member Advantage program at Rendez-vous Canada.
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BCHA's Fast Track Your Future:
Managing Crisis Communications
The BC Hotel Association’s (BCHA) Fast Track Your Future series returns next month with sessions on Managing Crisis Communications.
This series equips participants with essential issues management and communication tools tailored to the unique challenges of the hospitality sector.
From establishing a proactive response plan to implementing best practices, attendees will gain the confidence and expertise needed to navigate crises responsibly and intentionally.
Sessions:
- Preparedness Protocol June 4
- Strategic Responses June 11
- From Reaction to Recovery June 18
Learn more and register HERE.
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Big Spring Raffle|Early Bird
Deadline Approaching
The Big Spring online raffle is on! This fundraiser is to support the work of the Sport Fishing Institute of BC and its efforts to maintain and enhance sustainable access to BC’s public fisheries. Two early bird prizes will be drawn on May 25th.
The excellent main prizes, including a KingFisher boat, Yamaha motor and Scotty downriggers package and trips with Langara Fishing Adventures in Haida Gwaii, Codfather Charters in Port Hardy, and Pacific Angler in Vancouver are all possible with the purchase of a ticket online.
For tickets and more details visit HERE.
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5th Annual Support, Ship & Sip
Small Local Winery Launches Campaign to Support Industry Members in Need
Township 7 Winery has announced the launch of its fifth annual Ship, Sip & Support charity campaign, benefiting the BC Hospitality Foundation (BCHF). Dedicated to assisting hospitality and tourism workers facing unexpected health challenges, BCHF has provided critical support to over 300 individuals since its inception in 2006.
In the month of May, Township 7 will donate $10 from every online purchase to the BCHF, in addition to collecting direct donations on behalf of the charity. These contributions will directly aid BCHF's mission of providing essential financial assistance to those in need within the hospitality industry.
Supporters can join Township 7 Winery in their efforts by visiting Township7 HERE during the month of May to make a purchase or make a direct donation.
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2024 Canadian RVing and Camping Week
The Canadian RVing and Camping Week is designed to encourage Canadians and international visitors to get outside to enjoy a fun, safe and secure camping experience with family and friends.
Dates: May 21-26
The week is organized and sponsored by the Canadian Camping and RV Council and supported by the BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association to:
- Promote the lifestyle associated with camping and RVing.
- Promote good behaviour and respect via the Camper’s Code
- Raise funds for Care Camps to send children with cancer to camp.
Be part of the program and sign up HERE.
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Forward Together: Accessibility and Inclusion for All
Join National AccessAbility Week 2024 and celebrate:
- the valuable contributions and leadership of persons with disabilities in Canada
- the work of allies, organizations and communities that are removing barriers
- ongoing efforts to become a more accessible and disability inclusive Canada
This year, the theme for National AccessAbility Week is "Forward Together: Accessibility and Inclusion for All," emphasizing the need for collective efforts to create a barrier-free Canada. Our country's strength lies in the diversity of its people—all its people—and we can all contribute to this vision.
Dates: May 26 -June 1
Learn more HERE.
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Save the Date
2024 Annual Conference | BCAC's
"Soaring Above Challenges"
The BC Aviation Council (BCAC) is excited to announce that the 2024 Conference is now scheduled! Mark your calendar now and check in with our draft event webpage closer to the date for more details including agenda, speaker profiles, sponsorship opportunities, activities (including add-ons), travel and hotel partners, and more.
Date: May 27-29
Location: Nanaimo
Registration is open, learn more HERE.
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2024 BC Chamber of Commerce AGM
Join us and explore this vibrant, diverse and naturally beautiful city located on the traditional, ancestral, unceded territory of the Syilx/Okanagan people.
Date: May 28-30
Location: Coast Capri, 1171 Harvey Ave., Kelowna
Learn more and register HERE. Early bird registration ends April 30th.
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30th Annual TOTA Golf Tournament
Up Fore Some Fun? Register for the TOTA Golf Tournament
Yes, there will be great golf on an award-winning course, but this annual tournament is really about bringing people of the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry together for a day of connection and comradery, and, of course, fun!
Date: May 30
Location: Bighorn Golf & Country Club, Kamloops
Learn more and register HERE.
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BC Family Fishing Weekend
BC's Family Fishing Weekend is an annual celebration of fishing that coincides with the Father’s Day weekend. In 2024, the three-day event falls on June 14th to 16th. This is a great chance to get together with family and friends and try fishing!
The BC Family Fishing Weekend aims to share the simple joy of casting a line and catching a fish with all British Columbians.
There are plenty of ways to celebrate. Take advantage of free fishing days! No fishing licence is required to fish fresh or salt waters from June 14 to 16, 2024.
Learn more HERE.
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Okanagan Wine Festivals Return in June!
The Okanagan Wine Festivals returns this June with three weeks in wine country you don’t want to miss. There is no better time to visit BC Wine Country than in June. Just before the summer season kicks into high gear, you can explore all your favourite wineries and discover hidden treasures. The Okanagan Spring Wine Festival will focus on a TASTE and SIPS series of events throughout the Okanagan Valley.
Dates: June 2-23
The official launch of the Okanagan Spring Wine Festival will take place at the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre on Friday, June 7, following the British Columbia Wine Awards private reception, where the 2024 BC TOP 50 and the Wine of the Year will be announced.
Learn more about the Okanagan Wine Festivals, the various events and how to purchase tickets HERE.
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Active Transportation Summit 2024 Registration Now OPEN!
Shape the future of active transportation in BC at the 2024 Active Transportation Summit. This dynamic two-day conference, supported by the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, and hosted by BCCC, brings together planners, engineers, government leaders, industry experts, nonprofits, and academics for collaboration and innovation. This year's theme, "Let's Keep Moving", challenges us to do even more.
Dates: June 18-19
Location: Anvil Centre, New Westminster
Get 50% off the regular price if you register before April 5!. Learn more and register HERE.
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Art of Leadership for Women Returns
to Vancouver
The Art of Leadership Women is returning to Vancouver! This year's conference features a riveting collection of renowned world leaders, business icons, esteemed academics, and bestselling authors who share strategies and insights on the most critical issues confronting leaders in our world today. Don't miss this unique opportunity to develop your leaders, engage your talent, and build high-performing teams.
Date: June 24
Time: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
Location: Vancouver Convention Centre
Use promo code TIABC40 and save $100 per pass.
Learn more and register HERE.
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2024 CanSPEP National Conference Registration
Join event entrepreneurs at CanSPEP featuring immersive programs, networking and awards in Victoria, BC.
Dates: June 25-28
Early registration is now open until May 3rd. Learn more and register HERE.
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2024 BCHF Golf Tournaments
Registration is now open for the 2024 BC Hospitality Foundation golf tournaments. This year a new venue is being introduced to the Vancouver location which will bring a whole new experience:
Dates:
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July 5 - Tsawwassen Springs Golf Club, Tsawwassen
- August 21 - Olympic Golf Club, Victoria
Learn more and register HERE.
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Save the Date | Hidi Nishi Golf Tournament
The highly anticipated Hidi Nishi Golf Tournament is set to tee off! Golf enthusiasts and industry professionals alike will gather for a day of friendly competition and networking against the stunning backdrop of British Columbia’s scenic landscapes.
Dates: July 17
Location: Tsawwassen Springs Golf Club, Tsawwassen
To Register: please email the CITAP+ office at info@citap.ca to be invoiced for your preferred activities/ sponsorships. Please indicate the number of individuals that will be in attendance.
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SKAL Vancouver | Tourism Industry Golf Tournament
This year Vancouver's tourism executive club: Skal, is hosting a different kind of tourism industry Golf Tournament; a KP (Closest to the Pin) Shootout.
Date: June 21
Location: Mylora, Richmond
Having 15 Par 3's to shoot at for $1000.00 in cash & prizes on a course anyone can play on, with a Shotgun start, is the way to go. More fun, no waiting around for 5 hours on a golf course, and a great barbeque onsite at the end.
We are looking for Golfers, Hole sponsors, a Title sponsor for the event, the reception, and the KP shootout. For more information, visit THIS LINK.
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33rd Annual PNWER Summit
Advancing a Sustainable Regional Economy through Clean Energy & Innovation
Legislators, business leaders, academics, and policymakers from the U.S. and Canada will gather in Whistler for PNWER's 33rd Annual Summit from July 21-25 to discuss regional economic best practices and trade concerns. It will be an opportunity to engage with our region's key decision makers on both sides of the border.
Dates: July 21-22
Location: Fairmont Château Whistler
Learn more and register HERE.
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Save the Date | NBC Tourism Summit!
The Northern BC Tourism Summit is back for 2024! It will be the first time the summit has happened since 2019 and we are thrilled to be back in the room together.
Dates: October 22-24
Program details will be released soon!.
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Save the Date | Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association AGM
The Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association will be holding it's 47th Annual General Meeting & Tourism Industry Conference.
Dates: October 23-24
Location: Prestige Lakeside Resort, Nelson
Mark your calendar! Program details to follow!
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Annual Lodging & Camping Ideas Forum
The Ideas Forum is designed to provide BC Lodging and Campground Association members and guests with an inexpensive learning opportunity thanks to our sponsors and suppliers. It’s a chance to network with the sponsors, suppliers, fellow members and meet the volunteer board of directors. This is where ideas are discussed, knowledge is shared, and members’ questions answered!
Dates: November 4-6
Location: Manning Park Resort
Registration and agenda to be available August, 2024.
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Tourism Congress 2024
Join the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) in beautiful Vancouver for an immersive conference experience that brings together tourism leaders, stakeholders, and innovators from across Canada and beyond. Get ready to share insights, explore new ideas, and celebrate our industry's resilience and creativity. We are thrilled the Tourism Congress is hitting the road this year.
Dates: December 3-5
Location: Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre
Learn more about Tourism Congress including group booking opportunities HERE.
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Thank-you for your readership! We encourage you to send us your ideas or content that would be valuable for TIABC to share through our Bulletin.
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TIABC recognizes that our members, stakeholders and staff occupy the ceded, unceded and traditional territories of Indigenous Nations across British Columbia. We sincerely appreciate the opportunity to live, work and play on the lands that our Indigenous friends and First Nations ancestors honour and care for. | | | | |