Welcome
?imash ?imash e te syiyaya
'Family and friends’ Reconciliation Movement
Our purpose
In This We Journey Together
The syiyaya Reconciliation Movement is a community-led initiative that welcomes everyone living on the shíshálh swiya (homelands) to walk together on a shared journey of truth, healing, and reconciliation.
The name syiyaya, meaning "family and friends" in the shashishalhem language, reflects the spirit of the movement: building relationships founded on respect, understanding, and shared responsibility. Guided by Indigenous and non-Indigenous community members, syiyaya is a local response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action.
Through dialogue, education, cultural experiences, and collaborative projects, we create opportunities to learn from one another, strengthen relationships, and inspire meaningful change—both within our community and beyond.
Discover the significance of the BC Reconciliation Award and what it represents for the syiyaya Reconciliation Movement and our community.
Experience the and 2025 BC Reconciliation Award Presentation and celebrate this special moment with the community through the official event video.
Browse a photo gallery capturing the people, stories, performances, and shared moments that made the award celebration so meaningful.
Our history
From Conversation to Movement
The syiyaya Reconciliation Movement began with a shared commitment to respond to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action.
Beginning in 2010, community members explored how reconciliation could take shape on the Sunshine Coast. In 2017, Indigenous and non-Indigenous leaders spent a year listening, learning, and engaging in dialogue with the shíshálh Nation and the wider community. Through these conversations, shíshálh Elders encouraged the creation of a grassroots movement and gifted it the name syiyaya.
A partnership between the shíshálh Nation and the District of Sechelt helped strengthen the movement and build a foundation for long-term collaboration.
In April 2018, the syiyaya Reconciliation Movement was officially launched at the shíshálh Longhouse by former elected Chief Ɂakista xaxanak Garry Feschuk and former Sechelt Mayor Cameron Reid, marking the beginning of a community-led journey rooted in truth, respect, and reconciliation.
Inspired by the strength and resilience of Residential School Survivors, the syiyaya Reconciliation Movement continues to bring people together through learning, dialogue, cultural experiences, and community action, building relationships that advance reconciliation for generations to come.
OUR PROYECTS
Reconciliation Through Action
“It may take a million steps to reach reconciliation between our peoples in the shishalh swiya, and right now, we may only be on step 500 5000… but we’re on our way.”
Meet the artists
Discover the talented Indigenous artists whose creativity and cultural knowledge have helped shape the syiyaya Reconciliation Movement.
Their work—from weaving and carving to painting and design—celebrates culture, healing, and reconciliation.
Weaver & Cultural Ambassador Sharing shíshálh traditions through weaving, song, and cultural teachings.
Elder & Weaver Honouring culture, healing, and tradition through weaving and regalia.
Artist & Cultural Educator Sharing Indigenous knowledge through art, storytelling, and cultural experiences.
Coast Salish Artist Celebrating Indigenous design, culture, and creative expression.
BE PART OF THE CHANGE
Walk the Journey With Us
604-740-6400
scsyiyaya@gmail.com
