Secwépemc Museum Reopens, Celebrating Culture and Resilience

After five years of anticipation, the Secwépemc Museum and Heritage Park has reopened, offering an enhanced space that highlights the traditions and living culture of the Secwépemc people. Located in the heart of the Tk’emlúps reserve, the museum invites visitors to explore a rich tapestry of history and resilience.

The revitalized museum features a blend of natural elements, storytelling, and interactive exhibits. According to museum curator Cuyler Page, the renovation aimed to deepen cultural understanding and provide a reflective environment. Key additions include a new educational theatre and a tribute garden, both designed to foster engagement and learning.

One of the most significant exhibits is dedicated to the history of residential “schools,” a term used in quotations to acknowledge the findings of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which identified these institutions as harmful to Indigenous communities. Through personal narratives, archival materials, and visual art, the exhibit confronts a painful chapter in Canadian history while honoring the strength of survivors. Tours of the former Kamloops Indian Residential School are also available, guiding participants through spaces such as the chapel, dining room, and boys’ dormitory, while recounting the historical harms inflicted by the Oblates of Mary Immaculate from the 1800s until 1969.

Engaging Exhibits and Community Support

The museum showcases traditional Secwépemc tools, clothing, and oral histories, alongside contemporary expressions of Indigenous identity. Notably, the integration of the Secwépemc language throughout the museum enhances the cultural experience. Page shared a heartwarming anecdote about a mother who entertained her children with a puppet show using one of the interactive exhibits.

Since its soft reopening in May 2023, the museum has garnered significant community support. Visitors have expressed appreciation for the educational value and cultural richness of the space. Page noted that much of the feedback he receives has been visual, as he observes guests captivated by the exhibits.

The Secwépemc Museum and Heritage Park aims to be more than just an educational facility. It aspires to serve as a living space for communication, healing, and celebration. “It is a place to celebrate the past and connect the future,” Page remarked.

Future Plans and Community Engagement

Looking ahead, the museum plans to strengthen its ties with the community through workshops, language classes, guest lectures, and cultural events designed to enhance engagement. This initiative encourages both locals and visitors to connect meaningfully with Indigenous history.

Open to the public from Monday to Friday, 09:00 to 15:30, the Secwépemc Museum and Heritage Park is located at 200-330 Chief Alex Thomas Way. This revitalized institution offers an invaluable opportunity for individuals to immerse themselves in Indigenous culture and history, fostering a deeper understanding of the Secwépemc people and their enduring legacy.