Langford is located on the traditional territories of various Coast Salish communities including Xwsepsum (Esquimalt), Lekqwungen (Songhees), Scia’new (Beecher Bay) and WŚANEĆ (Tsartlip, Pauquachin, Tsawout, Tseycum, Malahat). If you haven’t already, we recommend checking out the Southern Gulf Island quiz after you finish this one to learn more about the local Indigenous communities. After all, Langford and the Southern Gulf Islands are very close to each other and, historically, Indigenous communities would cover lots of land subsisting off of the abundant natural resources found throughout the areas.

The South Island Spirit Loop is a neat example of regenerative tourism in practice. Created as a collaboration between Destination BC, the City of Langford and the T’Souke (Sooke) and Malahat First Nations, this project encourages “staycation” tourism, focused on encouraging Vancouver Island residents to travel the South Island Spirit Loop (which connects Langford, Sooke, Port Renfrew and Malahat). It includes suggested travel itineraries for the various communities, highlighting Indigenous owned businesses, attractions, and accommodations. The project works with the nations, on the nation’s terms, to help promote tourism and economic development within their community. This project is a great example of how local governments and businesses can actively work to support reconciliation.

The Malahat Skywalk is one of those featured attractions, which of course is built on Malahat territory. The towering structure provides epic views of the Saanich Peninsula and Southern Gulf Islands beyond. As you walk up the spiral ramp, you’ll learn about Coast Salish stories, culture and history. The Malahat Nation gets revenue from the skywalk that they use in part towards restoring the land from its previous industrial use. Yet another example of Indigenous communities having to clean up after the mess created by settlers. Importantly, however, this is an example of ecotourism done right. This framework allows the local Indigenous communities to use the money towards preserving their lands, heritage and culture.

Another example of steps towards reconciliation in Langford, is the land swap deal involving Langford, Metchosin and Scia’new (Beecher Bay First Nation). In 2017, initial boundary changes were mapped out, and involved plans to create a new business park in which Scia’new holds majority ownership. Although the actual building and development has been delayed due to construction difficulties, the plan paves the way for a sustainable revenue stream for Scia’new.