06/21/2026
Today, June 21, is National Indigenous Peoples Day, a time to celebrate and honour the diverse cultures, histories, languages, and knowledge systems of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples across these lands.
We encourage you to learn more about the Nations and territories where you live, and about the rich and living Indigenous cultures that thrive today. It is also an important occasion to reflect on the impacts of colonization and how they historically and presently affect Indigenous communities.
We are fortunate to care for belongings and cultural works from many Indigenous communities in our collections, and we acknowledge that MOA is situated on the unceded territory of the Musqueam people. At MOA, we strive to highlight the diversity, resilience, and vitality of Indigenous cultures and peoples.
Pictured here is Cedar Man, a powerful carving by Nuu-chah-nulth artist Joe David. Created in 1984 as a form of protest against the planned logging of Wanachus-Hilthuuis (Meares Island), the carving became a symbol of Indigenous stewardship, environmental protection, and the defence of Nuu-chah-nulth homelands. It was raised at Meares Island and later at a major anti-logging rally at the provincial parliament buildings in Victoria before eventually coming to MOA, where he continues to greet visitors and impart his stories.
👉 Experience Indigenous Peoples Day at MOA—we are open today from 10 am to 5 pm. Admission is free for Indigenous people year-round.
Plan your visit: https://f.mtr.cool/cllcuhueux
Cedar Man. [MOA Collection Nb11.368.] Nuu-chah-nulth: Tla-o-qui-aht. 1984. By Joe David. Cedar, paint. Located in MOA's Great Hall. 📷: Anna Klochko
