A Temporary Legacy for Canada’s Aboriginal People in the Heart of the 2010 Winter Olympics

 

The image shows what the Pavilion is projected to look like.

Vancouver – “This pavilion is our Longhouse. This is where we will welcome friends, family and visitors,” said Tsleil-Waututh Chief George-Wilson. “The Olympic focus on youth and on sport, combined with the experiences this pavilion will offer, will become a very positive story to be told and celebrated by many generations to come.”

On February 2^nd, the Four Host First Nations (FHFN) and the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the Olympics (VANOC) unveiled the 2010 Aboriginal Olympic Pavilion which will showcase Canada’s First Nations Peoples across Canada.  The Pavilion will be temporarily situated in the heart of Vancouver near GM Place and BC Place.  Due to financing issues, the project formerly estimated to cost $20 million was cut back to $3.5 Million if the “Native Groups” could arrange the financing.

 During an Interview with National Chief Phil Fontaine, I asked how he saw the Pavilion Inspiring Aboriginal Youth across Canada and how he hoped the youth will perceive the Legacy of the 2010 Games.  “We must ensure that the young people are aware of the incredible opportunities about telling the world who we are and how very important it is to whatever success we are able to achieve through the 2010 Olympics.” Chief Phil Fontaine answers. “As I said, it isn’t just a sporting event, it’s a celebration and as we heard today, it’s about sharing our stories and the celebration of our culture, our dances, our songs, and the most important thing is to denote that we are “Hollywood Character”, we want to Capsize the Hollywood Version of our People and show them who we really are.”

 The FHFN and VANOC both show great enthusiasm in showcasing the Rich Diversity of the First Nations people in BC and Canada. The Pavilion will be enriching us with Live Performances, Displays and other Fields of Achievement.  

 

National Chief Phil Fontaine and BC Premier Gordon Campbell speak about the Pavilion