BLOG POST
Indigenous Reconciliation on the Waterfront: A Cultural Compass Guided by Collaboration & Respect
On the waterfront, Indigenous reconciliation isn’t just one project or initiative — it’s an ongoing journey. It shows up through art, learning, and opportunities that create space for Indigenous voices. In this spotlight, we’re proud to share how SSA Marine is taking thoughtful steps forward.
Through a collaborative art initiative with Squamish Nation, SSA Marine commissioned a compass-inspired mural by Indigenous artist Calvin Charlie-Dawson (Ts’kanchtn). Installed on their headquarters signage, the piece reflects values of integrity, accountability, collaboration, respect and entrepreneurship. It stands as a quiet but powerful symbol of SSA Marine’s commitment to reconciliation — one rooted in relationship-building and authentic engagement.
ART, STORYTELLING, AND COMMITMENT
SSA Marine takes a thoughtful and multifaceted approach to Indigenous relations — from commissioning public art to supporting storytelling and education. Their efforts reflect a commitment to reconciliation that is intentional and deeply rooted in respect.
Together, these initiatives point to something larger: reconciliation as an ongoing journey. For SSA Marine, each step builds momentum toward deeper relationships and shared understanding.
A COMPASS FOR COLLABORATION
In 2023, SSA Marine partnered with Squamish Nation to commission a piece of Indigenous artwork for their headquarters signage in North Vancouver. The company issued a call for artists, working directly with Squamish Nation to promote the opportunity and ensure community engagement. After receiving six submissions, the team selected a design by Calvin Charlie-Dawson, an Indigenous artist from North Vancouver and a descendant of the Squamish, Kwakwaka’wakw, and Sto:lo Nations. Calvin’s work blends digital art with traditional practices such as carving and canoe building, reflecting a dynamic and evolving artistic journey.
The piece, titled Ts’its’apnewas (Working Together), is a modern interpretation of a spindle whorl, simplified to resemble a compass. It features Salish-style form line faces in various colours, each representing a directional point and symbolic value. The blue face signifies the West and the ocean. The red face represents the East, symbolizing the land of the Squamish Nation, the earth (Temixw), and Mother Earth herself. The circular, multi-coloured design also draws inspiration from the medicine wheel, honouring the four directions and the four colours of humankind. In this context, it represents the relationship between SSA Marine and Squamish Nation — a partnership grounded in respect, balance, and shared values.
The artwork now lives on SSA Marine’s marquee sign, serving as a daily reminder of the company’s place on Indigenous land and its commitment to respectful partnership. Even after their rebrand, the piece remains — a testament to the enduring value of cultural collaboration and the importance of creating space for Indigenous voices in the company’s public identity.
SPONSORSHIPS, STORYTELLING, AND EDUCATION
SSA Marine’s reconciliation efforts extend beyond visual art. The company has consistently supported community events and storytelling initiatives, including:
- Recurring Silver sponsorship of the Tsleil-Waututh Canoe Festival, celebrating Indigenous culture and tradition.
- Recurring donations to the Indian Residential School Survivors Society, recognizing the importance of healing and remembrance on Truth and Reconciliation Day.
- A $15,750 impact donation to the documentary series Back to the Fire, which features prominent Indigenous leaders sharing stories of resilience and success. This contribution is helping to complete Episode 2, featuring Chief Gibby of Squamish Nation.
- A dedicated annual budget of $15,000 for other sponsorship/donation opportunities specific to Indigenous community support.
Internally, SSA Marine also shares educational resources with staff during Truth and Reconciliation Day and Indigenous Peoples Day. These include webinars from the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation and custom micro-lessons on Canada’s colonial history and its impact on Indigenous communities. Staff are encouraged to engage with materials that resonate with them, fostering a culture of ongoing learning and reflection.
BUILDING INTENTIONAL MOMENTUM
SSA Marine continues to explore ways to deepen its engagement, including discussions and long-term partnerships with local nations, further employee training, and integrating Indigenous perspectives into business operations. While these efforts are still in development, they reflect a growing commitment to economic collaboration and respectful engagement.
SSA Marine also acknowledges the challenges of operating across diverse geographies and Nations. Their approach is grounded in authenticity — doing meaningful work quietly and speaking only when there’s something truly worth sharing.
SSA Marine’s journey is a reminder that reconciliation is not a single act, but a sum of many parts. Through art, education, and community support, they continue to take thoughtful steps forward — building relationships that last and creating space for Indigenous voices across the waterfront.
