BC Business
Plus, where to purchase orange shirts for this year’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
September 30, 2023, marks the third annual National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, when many people will wear orange to not only recognize the impacts of residential schools but to stand in solidarity with the survivors and their families.
However, September 30 is only one day of the year—and it’s important to remember that reconciliation needs to happen every day by educating yourself, advocating for others, and supporting where you can.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of Indigenous-owned businesses operating in and around Vancouver—plus, where to buy orange shirts with proceeds going towards Indigenous artists and non-profits. Indigenous Tourism BC has an ever-growing list of businesses to support, but here are some local finds.
Sḵwálwen Botanicals, based in Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), is an Indigenous skincare line that uses Skwxwú7mesh plant knowledge and traditions to develop products that fully nourish the skin. Founder Leigh Joseph, PhD, also wrote the book, Held By the Land, which is a guide to Indigenous plants for wellness. You can purchase it on the Sḵwálwen Botanicals website.
Created in September 2018, Sisters Sage uses traditional Indigenous ingredients to create self-care and wellness products. Founders Lynn-Marie and Melissa-Rae Angus, both from East Vancouver, created products that pay homage to their Indigenous heritage. Their most popular items are the Smokeless Smudge Spray and bath bombs.
In the heart of Granville Island lives the Wickaninnish Gallery, a 100-percent Indigenous-owned boutique. The Wickaninnish offers high-quality, yet affordable, art and gifts that feature emerging and established Indigenous artists
Offering handpicked and ethically sourced products is Charlie & Lee, a Métis-Cree-owned and independently operated clothing and home goods shop. Think: fall wardrobe staples and mugs you wouldn’t mind leaving on the counter.
Salmon n’ Bannock Bistro is Vancouver’s only Indigenous-owned and -operated restaurant. The intimate dining experience focuses on First Nations food and traditions. Owner Inez Cook is also the author of the children’s book The Sixties Scoop.
You can purchase a Bangin’ Bannock fry-bread mix at multiple local shops all over the Lower Mainland. This Indigenous- and women-owned business is based on family recipes and all you have to add is water before frying up some tasty bannock.
The dreary cold months are coming, but there are still some fun outdoor activities you can enjoy. Talaysay Tours offers five different eco-tourism adventures in and around Vancouver, Squamish and the Sunshine Coast—everything from forest bathing to air tours.
The orange shirt has become a symbol of reconciliation. Check out our sister publication Vancouver magazine’s extensive list of where you can buy an orange shirt from 2022 for September 30 as well as these additions.
London Drugs is an official sponsor of Orange Shirt Day, and you can purchase a T-shirt at any of their locations. All proceeds go to the Orange Shirt Society.
Created by Indigenous artist Morningstar, this custom-made orange shirt for Truth and Reconciliation Day also supports the Orange Shirt Society, with 100 percent of proceeds being donated. It’s currently sold out online, but select stores may still have some available.
September 30, 2023
Times: 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Location: Museum of Vancouver
Admission: Tickets: $85 for general, $70 for seniors (65+), MOV members, students (with ID), $50 for Indigenous peoples
To learn more about Orange Shirt Day, how you can get involved, and where to donate visit: orangeshirtday.org