syiyaya Reconciliation Movement 

The British Columbia Reconciliation Award recognizes extraordinary individuals and organizations who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, integrity, respect, and commitment to furthering reconciliation with Indigenous peoples in the province of British Columbia, or inspired others to continue reconciliation efforts. Learn more about the BC Reconciliation Award recipients.

The syiyaya Reconciliation Movement (syiyaya) was founded through the leadership of Hereditary Chief ?akista xaxanak Garry Feschuk, Sechelt Indigenous Elders, and non-Indigenous allies, in collaboration with the shíshálh Nation. Built on the principle of shared leadership, syiyaya fosters open dialogue, education, and relationship-building between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities on the Sunshine Coast.

Dedicated to truth, healing, and partnership, syiyaya provides spaces for Survivors of the Indian Residential School system to share their stories through community gatherings, films, workshops, and dialogue circles. Projects such as Carving Tears into Dreams of Reconciliation and Weaving Tears into Dreams of Reconciliation have engaged thousands in hands-on, cross-cultural collaboration transforming awareness into action. The resulting public artworks, unveiled in 2024, now stand as lasting symbols of respect, unity, and reconciliation.

Since its first Orange Shirt Walk, syiyaya has inspired a community-wide shift in understanding. Annual “syiyaya Days,” held from National Indigenous Peoples Day to Canada Day, celebrate shíshálh culture and have become a model for reimagining national observances. With equal Indigenous and non-Indigenous representation, the syiyaya Committee and its volunteers continue to lead by example empowering youth, uplifting Elders, and ensuring reconciliation is not an event, but an ongoing relationship built on truth, respect, and shared humanity.