Challenge
Vancouver and its surrounding areas are situated on the traditional, unceded territories of the Coast Salish peoples. Urban sprawl and rapid development have resulted in significant disruptions to the environment, particularly waterways and forests that hold cultural and spiritual significance. The Coast Salish Nation required a development strategy that addressed the following key concerns:
- Cultural Sensitivity: Ensuring urban expansion aligns with Coast Salish traditions, respecting the land, water, and local ecology.
- Environmental Protection: Urban planning had to integrate sustainable practices that minimize impact on wildlife and natural resources.
- Community-Centered Design: The strategy needed to prioritize affordable housing, community spaces, and economic opportunities for Indigenous peoples.
- Government Relations: Coordinating with federal, provincial, and municipal governments while advocating for Indigenous land rights and co-governance.
Approach
Our team employed a collaborative approach based on community consultation, cultural research, and environmental assessment. We worked directly with Coast Salish elders, environmentalists, and urban planners to develop a framework that balanced modern infrastructure with Coast Salish worldviews.
Cultural Integration Workshops
We conducted a series of workshops to better understand Coast Salish principles regarding land use. The input of local elders and knowledge keepers was essential in identifying sacred sites, culturally significant flora and fauna, and traditional water stewardship practices. These workshops shaped the core values of the development plan.
Learning 1
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Learning 1
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Learning 1
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Conclusion
The Coast Salish Sustainable Urban Development Strategy demonstrates that cultural heritage and modern infrastructure can coexist when development is approached with respect, collaboration, and innovation. By placing the Coast Salish Nation at the heart of the planning process, we successfully created a blueprint for urban growth that reflects their cultural identity while fostering sustainability for future generations.
