October 2 2025
Navigating Reconciliation: BCMEA’s Journey of Respect and Partnership
British Columbia’s maritime industry is deeply connected to the lands and waters along its coast—territories that local First Nations have stewarded since time immemorial. As our sector grows and evolves, so must the relationships we build with those Nations.
The BCMEA has taken meaningful steps on the path of reconciliation—through cultural recognition, education, and engagement with local Nations.
Why Reconciliation Matters in the Maritime Industry
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action #92 urges businesses to adopt the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) as a framework for reconciliation. For the maritime sector, it means working in partnership, building trust, and creating economic and cultural opportunities for Indigenous communities.
With so much of our industry taking place on traditional territories and waterways, reconciliation and Indigenous participation is essential for a resilient and prosperous waterfront economy.
Here’s a look at where that journey has taken us so far.
Building Awareness and Commitment Education and Reflection
- In 2021 when was established for September 30, the BCMEA Board were the first amongst the industry to recognize this day as an official statutory holiday. Since then, as Canadians deepen their understanding of this history, the BCMEA remains committed to advancing reconciliation through meaningful action.
A Public Commitment Through Art
- BCMEA unveiled a mural titled “Oceans Together” at its Vancouver Dispatch Centre.
- Created by Musqueam artist Darryl Blyth in consultation with Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations, the mural features two orcas alongside a marine vessel in traditional Coast Salish style.
- The artwork was unveiled in a Musqueam-led ceremony, reflecting BCMEA’s respect for cultural protocols and its commitment to reconciliation.
As BCMEA CEO & President Mike Leonard explains:
“The mural pays homage to this rich cultural heritage … and represents the collective commitment of BCMEA and its members to reconciliation.”
Education and Reflection
Training and internal discussions continue to help staff and members better learn the truths and understand reconciliation as an ongoing responsibility. To date, the BCMEA continues to:
- Mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with public reflections on Indigenous contributions and the importance of awareness in the workplace. This includes participating in a symbol of hope, reconciliation and commitment to better future.
- Develop a Reconciliation Awareness & Program, Indigenous-led workshops for our leadership team and members, that include training and cultural experiences.
- Expand cultural awareness training opportunities for BCMEA staff and members through our partnership with the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade.
Why It Matters
These actions are a start to realizing our commitment, but their impact is real:
- Trust: visible commitments help build stronger relationships.
- Cultural safety: integrating Indigenous voices and perspectives makes workplaces more inclusive.
- Sector leadership: by taking action, the BCMEA sets an example for other organizations, including our members across the waterfront to do the same, or more.
Reconciliation requires listening, learning, and taking action. The BCMEA’s work is an early but important step in building stronger relationships with Nations.
As an industry rooted in the lands and waters of this province, it’s our shared responsibility to keep moving forward together.
Learn more about how the BCMEA is supporting reconciliation initiatives here.
