Cultural Heritage

Vancouver is located on the unceded traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, with a rich cultural heritage spanning over 10,000 years. The city boasts the largest Chinatown in Canada and the second largest in North America. Socially, racially, and ethnically diverse communities contribute to a flourishing array of cultures, traditions, customs, languages, landmarks, and tangible and intangible heritage elements from around the world, making Vancouver a culturally vibrant city.

Embracing Change

Vancouver, established in 1886, is a young city evolving into a dynamic, prosperous, and rapidly growing region. The city has become a hub for film production, earning it the moniker of a second Hollywood. As the economic and cultural center of the region, Vancouver is anticipated to grow significantly by 2050. The city’s role in job creation, housing, and immigration is pivotal, with careful consideration needed to manage growth sustainably and preserve its unique character.

The Role of the Policymaker

Arts & Culture take center stage in city building, with a focus on championing creators, elevating arts & culture, and recognizing and supporting Indigenous cultural knowledge through decolonizing practices. Policymakers are urged to advance cultural equity and accessibility, prevent displacement through community-led spaces, and strengthen sector resilience through collaboration and capacity building. Vancouver’s locational advantages, economic strengths, and social diversity provide a robust foundation for policymakers to navigate and shape the city’s future.

The Future

Vancouver, economically strong and globally recognized in various sectors, is expected to continue as the preferred location for jobs and a hub for new immigration. With plans for substantial population and job growth by 2050, the city must address challenges related to affordable housing, accessible spaces, and maintaining its unique cultural identity. Policymakers are encouraged to collaborate, leverage investment, and foster partnerships to ensure Vancouver’s resilience and sustainable development into the future. Green access, diverse economic strengths, and cultural richness contribute to the city’s unique identity and play a vital role in shaping its future.

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