Canoeing Cultures

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The canoe of the Aboriginal Peoples is perhaps the ultimate expression of elegance and function in the world of watercraft.  All its parts come from nature, and when it is retired, it returns to nature. Except for the tribes of the Plains, the canoe was vital to all Aboriginal cultures of Canada, each tribe being defined by the distinct shape of its canoe or kayak.  It was not only the principal means of transportation, but was also critical to almost every facet of life; canoe and kayak builders were revered in their societies.

Through the canoe and kayak, the centrality of Aboriginal Peoples to Canadian history can be honoured.  The symbol of the canoe can do much to bring Aboriginal Peoples back to the centre of Canadian culture, rather than leaving them on the margins, where they all too often reside.