A concept plan for a new Indigenous centre is moving forward on the territories of the Coast Salish peoples in Vancouver.
Located at the corner of East Hastings Street and Commercial Drive, the new centre will be a permanent purpose-built home for the Urban Native Youth Association (UNYA) and the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology (NVIT) Vancouver campus.
It will include a youth centre, a post-secondary education and skills training campus, affordable homes, a child care centre and cultural and support services.
“This centre represents a significant step forward to addressing the legacy of residential schools, intergenerational trauma, and the realization of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. The provisions of Indigenous programming and services by Indigenous organizations founded on Indigenous cultural values and principles are a foundational step forward and away from the ongoing legacy of colonialism,” said Matthew Norris, UNYA president.
Guided by the calls to action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the B.C. Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act, this centre will provide opportunities for Indigenous students and youth to learn and move forward in a culturally safe and supported environment.
“With more Indigenous people choosing to call Metro Vancouver home, there is a growing demand for community-based, culturally relevant services,” said Premier John Horgan. “This new centre will help meet the need and seize the opportunity, serving as a national example of Indigenous-led, transformational change. By working in partnership with Indigenous Peoples, we are building a stronger province where everyone has access to opportunities today and for generations to come.”
The new centre is envisioned to provide a welcoming and centralized space for UNYA’s youth programming, including classrooms, media labs, art studios, community spaces for Elders, traditional ceremony spaces, health and wellness clinic, and gym and recreation areas.
With the approval of the concept plan, government will also provide $2.5 million for the business-case development to finalize the project’s scope, timelines and funding sources.
