VicPD Indigenous Engagement
Land Acknowledgement
The Victoria Police Department and the area that we serve is located on the ancestral and traditional lands of the Lekwungen people, known today as the Esquimalt and Songhees Nations. We acknowledge the unique impacts of the role of police in Indigenous history and are actively working on our commitment to reconciliation through building relationships and learning.
VicPD's Indigenous Heritage Crest
The VicPD Indigenous Heritage Crest was designed by acclaimed educator and master carver Yux’wey’lupton, a true visionary guide and knowledge-keeper, known widely by his English name, Clarence “Butch” Dick. Butch was also instrumental in helping design our VicPD crest, which prominently features the Sta’qeya, or Coast Salish wolf, as a way to represent our connection to the traditional Lekwungen territories where we live and work.
Symbolism in the Design
At the heart of the Indigenous Heritage Crest is the Medicine Wheel, a powerful Indigenous symbol that represents:
- Stages of life: birth, youth, adult, death
- Seasons of the year: spring, summer, winter, fall
- Aspects of life: spiritual emotional, intellectual, physical
- Elements of nature: fire (or sun), air, water, and earth
- Animals: eagle, bear, wolf, buffalo and many others
Through this crest, VicPD celebrates the enduring connection between the department and the Indigenous Peoples of the traditional Lekwungen territories.
- Stages of life: birth, youth, adult, death
- Seasons of the year: spring, summer, winter, fall
- Aspects of life: spiritual emotional, intellectual, physical
- Elements of nature: fire (or sun), air, water, and earth
- Animals: eagle, bear, wolf, buffalo and many others
Through this crest, VicPD celebrates the enduring connection between the department and the Indigenous Peoples of the traditional Lekwungen territories.
VicPD Canoe
The Victoria Police Department’s Canoe, donated by Focus Equities and blessed by Lekwungen Elders, symbolizes community and relationship building. It represents Victoria Police Department’s commitment to strengthening connections with Indigenous communities and supporting the journey of reconciliation.
VicPD Unity Pole
The Unity Project was launched in 1999 by the Victoria Police Historical Society and Victoria Police Department to strengthen relationships between police and Indigenous communities. Supported by grants and community fundraising, the project emphasized unity, respect, and cultural exchange. Unfortunately, the pole had to be removed due to structural damage, but active work is being done to commemorate it.
Pulling Together Journey
The Pulling Together Canoe Journey is a multi-day event where Indigenous Peoples, public service agencies, and youth paddle together across the Salish Sea. This journey aims to break down stereotypes and build understanding by bringing people together and honoring the past. It’s also a chance to connect through cultural exchange and outdoor activities.
In the summer of 2024, VicPD participated in this incredible event, with a team of officers, civilian staff, volunteers, a knowledge keeper, and youth from the Ocean Spirit canoe family joining more than 300 participants to paddle through Squamish territory. They spent hours on the water, honoring the traditions of Indigenous Peoples who traveled in hand-crafted canoes for generations.
The teams faced challenges along the way but grew stronger by working together to overcome them. With every stroke of the paddle, they connected with nature and built friendships that will last a lifetime.
At the end of each day, they took part in ceremonies to seek permission to enter the local Squamish territory. This respectful tradition allowed the teams and their canoes to rest and prepare for the next day’s journey.
Participants described the journey as a magical experience
They shared stories about the spirit of the land and the people who call Canada home. Laughter often echoed across the water as everyone paddled together, creating a sense of joy and unity.
When the journey ended, participants reflected on new perspectives about respecting the land and water and a deeper understanding of connections to their ancestors. The experience symbolized unity, community, and the sacred bond between Indigenous peoples and their land.
VicPD looks forward to continuing their involvement in the Pulling Together Canoe Journey, building on the meaningful relationships and steps toward understanding and reconciliation fostered through this unique and inspiring experience.
This summer, VicPD is honoured to be part of the Pulling Together Journey again in 2025.
