Fraser River Families

In Musqueam culture, salmon is sacred. They are a symbol of abundance, prosperity, and wealth. They are our livelihood. We have the responsibility to respect all things, which includes protecting our salmon populations. A continued decline in their numbers would be devastating for our people. It is accepted among the Coast Salish Nations that the Musqueam were the sentinels of the river and protectors of the great resources of the estuary.

Fishing season in Musqueam is a family affair. For Fraser River Families, I reached out to family and Musqueam community members for images of fishing on the river. In many of these photos, you’ll find my grandfather, Robert Point. He was the backbone of our family. Our culture was very important to him, and he always shared his knowledge and teachings with all of his children and grandchildren. As a young Musqueam person, it has been interesting to learn some of my family history and our connection to what is now called Richmond. Many Musqueam people were responsible for overseeing points of land here, such as Point Roberts, Garry Point, and Point Grey, and so the legend is that Catholic priests gave these people the surname Point. This history is incredibly important, because it connects me not only with my ancestors but also this place.

As a community and First Nation, Musqueam has always practiced strong and proud traditions. We have lived in our Traditional Territory and fished salmon from the Fraser River since time immemorial. This knowledge continues to be passed on through families to our future generations. Many non-Indigenous residents of Richmond are unaware of our history here. It is important for others to know that this city sits on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territories of the Musqueam people.

—Diamond Point

A panel of Indigenous artists selected Diamond Point to be the featured artist for this station from an open call for a Musqueam artist. Point produced the work through an intensive mentorship with artist Krista Belle Stewart.

Curated by Paula Booker, Richmond Art Gallery,
in partnership with Richmond Public Art Program

Presented in partnership with
Canada Line Public Art Program—InTransit BC