Tsawwassen, BC — On May 3, 2025, a vibrant celebration was held to honour the completion of the video “sməq̓ʷaʔ xeł – the Great Blue Heron Way – A Trail Reconnecting First Nations Communities”. The event brought together Elder xʷasteniya, Tsawwassen First Nation (TFN) Chief Laura Cassidy, TFN Executive Council member Valerie Cross, TFN members, esteemed Elders, video director Sage Flett Kruger, Trails BC staff and Great Blue Heron Way Volunteer Committee to witness the inspiring video produced by Devon Head of Shot by Devon. This video, a pivotal milestone in the Great Blue Heron Way initiative, was made possible through funding from Grand Challenges Canada in partnership with the Government of Canada.

The newly released video serves as a vital tool in the development of the Great Blue Heron Way, showcasing the project’s significance as a cultural pathway that reconnects and celebrates First Nations heritage. The video aims to increase outreach and communicate the meaning of the Great Blue Heron Way, welcoming all who live and travel in the traditional territories of the Tsawwassen Nation, and seeks to develop partnerships with other First Nations in all four directions from the host Nation.

Over the past three years, TFN and Trails BC have worked collaboratively to bring Elder xʷasteniya ‘s vision to life, nurturing a growing relationship grounded in mutual respect, cooperation, and community empowerment. This celebration represents not only the completion of the video project but also the strengthening of partnerships between TFN and Trails BC.

“It’s so inspiring to see the film and the background of it all” said Laura Cassidy, Chief of the Tsawwassen First Nation, “You’ve brought in the youth, you’ve drawn in all of the community. It is the Trails that connect all of us First Nations together. The film inspired, I love how all of you have worked on this together.”

Jesseca Adams and her sister Constance Adams provided cultural support for the event, and Jesseca shared a heartfelt story about her sister sharing with an urban indigenous paddler she had met. She reflected, “The essence of the Great Blue Heron Way, the connection this is going to bring. Not just nation-to-nation reconciliation, but reconciliation between all of our neighboring communities. It’s such a beautiful thing that this one story is going to be the story of many, thanks to the sməq̓ʷaʔ xeł – the Great Blue Heron Way. ”

“This is my gift to the Tsawwassen First Nation,” said xʷasteniya, Great Blue Heron Way Visionary. “The Great Blue Heron Way is Our Way of Life, and every Nation that we’re going to go to, they will show us their Way of Life. I want you all to know all the friends that I’ve gathered into my hands who have done all this work.”

“Something that struck my heart was that Elder Ruth was doing something that our ancestors know,” said Trails BC employee Sage Flett Kruger. “BC Assembly of First Nations staff asked if we had a video, and I thought, Elder xʷasteniya needs that, and it’s been a beautiful journey making it.”
This celebration is a testament to the power of collaboration and community, The Great Blue Heron Way is more than just a trail; it is a connection to culture, history, and the future. We are excited to share this journey with everyone.

The event featured remarks from community leaders, the Great Blue Heron Way Volunteer Committee, and a heartfelt presentation from xʷasteniya, Jesseca Adams, Constance Adams and Sage Flett Kruger, who inspired attendees with their dedication to capturing the essence of the Great Blue Heron Way through their film. The screening marked a joyous moment in the initiative, highlighting the stories and cultural significance that will resonate with all who experience the trail.

The Great Blue Heron Way is envisioned as a network of trails that not only promotes healthy, green mobility and recreational opportunities but also serves as a bridge between communities. It invites everyone to explore and appreciate the rich cultural landscape of the traditional territories of the Tsawwassen people.

The May 3 celebration symbolized a shared commitment to cultural revitalization and environmental stewardship and was a poignant reminder of the role collaboration plays in creating pathways for future generations.

hay čxʷ q̓ə (thank you) to the Real Estate Foundation of BC for their sponsorship of the celebration and their support of the Indigenous Women and Youth Leadership in Access to the Land and Trails initiative which includes the Great Blue Heron Way.

For more information about the Great Blue Heron Way initiative and upcoming events, please contact us through our online form, available here.

Photo below by Adrain Williams