Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre Receives Cultural Authenticity Award

VANCOUVER/COAST SALISH TERRITORY, BC – The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre and the Xat’sull Heritage Village both received the Cultural Authenticity Award at the Host 2012 BC Tourism & Hospitality Awards on November 6, 2012.

The annual awards pay tribute to the individuals and organizations who have made a significant impact to the tourism and hospitality industry in British Columbia. Aboriginal Tourism BC (AtBC) presented the Cultural Authenticity Award, which recognizes an Aboriginal tourism business that has demonstrated a commitment to ensuring cultural authenticity.

“Both of these businesses have done such an unparalleled job presenting an authentic Aboriginal experience, we had to award both of them,” said Keith Henry, CEO of AtBC. “Aboriginal tourism is about cultural revitalization, and showing where First Nations come from. These businesses have invited visitors to experience their cultural history in a way that is exciting, powerful and inclusive.”

The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler showcases the art and heritage of the Squamish and Lil'wat Aboriginal people. It is the only cultural centre in the world purposefully designed to demonstrate how two distinct First Nations can share territory, knowledge, and cultural practices in a way that acknowledges the uniqueness of each.

The Xat’sull Heritage Village at Williams Lake exhibits the culture of Xat’sull community with its heritage village, as well as a sweat lodge, pit house, craft workshops and tours with experienced First Nations guides. Visitors are invited to watch food cooked in a fire pit, learn how to cure hide, and listen to the Xat’sull elders share stories passed down from generation to generation.

For more information about these Aboriginal businesses, visit www.aboriginalbc.com.

For media inquires contact:
Hollie Latulippe, Travel Media Specialist
C: 604 312 3498
hollie@aboriginalbc.com