VPS Territorial Acknowledgement

Territorial Acknowledgement

The Victoria Pride Society acknowledges that it organizes and works on the traditional territories of the Lekwungen peoples, and that the land’s historical relationships with the Songhees, Esquimalt and W̱SÁNEĆ peoples have existed since time immemorial. Further to this acknowledgement, the Victoria Pride Society affirms that colonialism, and the attitudes and practices that have accompanied it, contributes to systemic discrimination and violence against Indigenous Peoples.

Why Acknowledge?

The Victoria Pride Society recognizes that the land we live, work, and play on has historical relationships that predate our organization’s existence. In an effort to show greater respect and solidarity with Indigenous peoples, we acknowledge these territories and their historical relationships as part of a greater call for enabling Indigenous sovereignty and Indigenous spaces.

Understanding Relationships
Means Understanding Our History

The establishment of the contemporary Greater Victoria area was done under processes of settler colonialism, which are grounded in racist attitudes. Settler colonialism has created, and continues to create, a legacy of harms affecting generations of Indigenous peoples. Pride is not only a celebration of our diversity, but also a movement for respecting the rights of people who have traditionally been marginalized and oppressed by society. It is in keeping with the core principles and goals of Pride to fight for all who have endured oppression and marginalization.

Want to Learn More?

It is important for everyone to learn more about Indigenous peoples, the history of colonization and the greater movement for Indigenous rights. Check out the below links to get started!

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS

Indigenous Perspectives Society
Victoria Native Friendship Centre
RAVEN (Respecting Aboriginal Values and Environmental Needs) Trust