“If it hadn’t been for the full support of the Four Host First Nations in our bid, we likely wouldn’t be talking about Vancouver 2010 today.” – Jack Poole, VANOC Board Chairman

The Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games will be held on the traditional and shared traditional territories of the Lil’wat, Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations – known collectively as the Four Host First Nations. These Nations have co-existed as neighbours for centuries. They have used and occupied the lands and waters of their traditional territories since time immemorial. 

Early in the Bid Phase, it was understood that having the support and active participation of these Nations would enrich the Games and the Bid, and create lasting legacies for these communities. With this in mind, we engaged with these Nations and welcomed their contributions and support. This relationship was recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as an important factor in Vancouver’s winning bid.

An historic protocol for the Four Host First Nations and VANOC
"The 2010 Games present us with a significant opportunity to build new or enhance existing relationships, establish partnerships and showcase our diverse and extraordinary culture to the world. By working together we will fully participate in 2010 and more fully contribute to the local, regional and national economy." – Chief Ernest Campbell, Musqueam Nation

On November 30, 2005, Vancouver 2010 and the Lil’wat, Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations signed an historic protocol celebrating our relationship and a mutual commitment to work in partnership to achieve successful 2010 Games. This Protocol marks the first time an Organizing Committee has entered into such a partnership with Indigenous peoples.

The Protocol supports shared collaboration that will:

• Increase opportunities to showcase art, language, traditions, history and culture 
• Promote skills development and training related to the Games 
• Build lasting social, cultural and economic opportunities and benefits 
• Improve health, education and the strengthening of the communities through sport, economic development and cultural involvement 
• Create Youth sport legacy 
• Increase participation in Arts festivals and events 
• Increase participation in medal ceremonies, Games Opening and Closing Ceremonies

“Inclusive Aboriginal participation makes us stronger and in formalizing this relationship, we again show the importance that both parties attach to recognizing and respecting the role of Canada’s Aboriginal peoples in the planning, staging and hosting of the 2010 Games” – Jack Poole, VANOC Board Chairman

Official partners
In 2006, the International Olympic Committee recognized the Four Host First Nations as official partners – a first for Indigenous peoples in Olympic and Paralympic history.

The Four Host First Nations continue to be active participants in the planning process, ensuring the traditions and practices of the Nations are acknowledged and respected. They’re also reaching out to the broader Aboriginal community to enhance the 2010 Winter Games through Aboriginal participation while creating opportunities and leaving legacies for Aboriginal people.

Shared legacies
In November 2002, the Squamish and Lil’wat First Nations signed an agreement with the Province of BC and the Vancouver 2010 Bid Corporation called “Partners Creating Shared Legacies from the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.” This agreement outlined a package of economic, cultural, sport and capacity-building benefits and legacies for the Nations.

In 2003, the 2010 Bid Corporation signed Memoranda of Understanding with the Musqueam and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations outlining a commitment to work together to realize legacies for their Nations. Discussions continue today between VANOC, these two Nations and our senior government partners to identify appropriate legacies.

For more information about the Four Host First Nations, visit www.fourhostfirstnations.com.