What's On

Chief Dan George Exhibit

2017/06/03 (Saturday)

Photo courtesy UBC Museum of Anthropology, A038355. Photographer: Anthony Carter

Chief Dan George: Actor and Activist

North Vancouver, BC – Opening on June 22, 2017 at the North Vancouver Museum in Presentation House, Chief Dan George: Actor and Activist  explores the life and legacy of Tsleil-Waututh Chief Dan George (1899- 1981) and his influence as an Indigenous rights advocate and his career as an actor. The exhibition was developed in close collaboration with the George family.

Longshoreman, actor, musician, lecturer, poet, activist, environmentalist and First Nations leader; Dan George (born Geswanouth Slahoot) is remembered for many things. Raised on the Burrard Indian Reserve #3, the son of hereditary chief George Sla-holt, Dan George spent much of his life working as a longshoreman and logger and did not start his acting career until in his 60s. During the 1960s and 70s, he appeared in many television, movie and stage productions in which he worked to promote a better understanding of Indigenous people and challenged their common portrayal on screen. Although focused on Dan George, this exhibition will also delve into significant events and individuals in the Indigenous rights movement in BC and Canada.

“Growing up with Grandpa in our home and experiencing all his wonderful attributes and awe-inspiring wisdom he shared with many. I’m imprinted with his strong legacy of activism, he was way ahead of his time, and his vision that continues to inspire and guide us today. I’m overjoyed to have this opportunity to showcase the Chief Dan George Exhibit.” – Charlene Aleck, granddaughter of Chief Dan George, elected Councillor for the Tsleil-Waututh Nation and spokesperson for the Tsleil-Waututh Nation Sacred Trust Initiative.

Chief Dan George: Actor and Activist will be on display until April 2018 after which it will go on tour, the U’mista Cultural Centre in Alert Bay is its first stop.

The North Vancouver Museum is located in Presentation House at 209 West 4th Street, North Vancouver. It is open from Thursday – Sunday, 12 – 5pm and admission is free. This exhibition is supported by the Government of Canada and sponsored by CBC Vancouver.

 Further information: 604.987.5612 / 604.990.3700 ext. 8016 or nvma.ca