West Vancouver Fire & Rescue says it is honoured that Xwalacktun OBC of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw has contributed artwork on their new tower truck.
A blessing and push-in ceremony was held at Fire Hall No. 1 earlier this month to welcome the tower truck into the fleet.
“We are grateful to have this opportunity to promote reconciliation, equity, diversity, and inclusion by collaborating with the Squamish Nation,” said Jeremy Calder, Assistant Chief, Fire Prevention. “We strive to strengthen and further build the bonds and communication between West Vancouver Fire & Rescue and the Squamish Nation.”
The tower truck, also known as a mid-mount aerial platform, is a valued piece of equipment that assists the fire department in fighting fires from an elevated vantage point and performing rescues.
“I felt very honoured to hear that the West Vancouver Fire Department wanted this design work on their new truck. I see this as a powerful act in Truth and Reconciliation. Many elders and chiefs have said that ‘we are invisible on our own land’ and having Indigenous artwork visible on a service vehicle will bring pride to them and the community,” said Xwalacktun OBC.
“A quote that always stuck with me is, ‘My people will sleep for one hundred years, but when they awake, it will be the artists who give them their spirit back’—Louis Riel.”
The artwork features a Thunderbird and Longhouse on the large roll-up door on the rear of the truck. The Thunderbird is rising in the smoke from a long house. The Long House represents family and the Thunderbird represents protection and strength.
Located on the side body upper sign boards is a West Coast Canoe with Coast Salish paddles up, holding the Lions Gate Bridge. The canoe symbolizes pulling together and paddles up is a sign of peace and respect. The Lions Gate Bridge represents building connection between our communities.
