Want a special way to enjoy gorgeous Whistler this summer? Book an Evolve E-Bike, created by BCAA, and you may be riding through BC’s favourite mountain town on a e-bike with a difference.

June is National Indigenous History Month and we’ve partnered with the Squamish Lil’Wat Cultural Centre (SLCC) to showcase the inspiring designs of two local Indigenous artists on the fenders of select Evolve E-Bikes.

Understanding our shared history

At BCAA, we are committed to advancing reconciliation with Indigenous communities. This year, we’re partnering with SLCC to celebrate the culture of Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and Lil̓wat7ul (Lil’wat Nation) in Whistler during National Indigenous History Month and beyond.

We united with SLCC to engage two talented Indigenous artists: Chief Ray Natraoro (Ses Siyam), a well-respected artist from the Squamish Nation who is deeply involved with the traditional culture of his people, and Redmond Q̓áwam̓ Andrews, a young artist from the Lil’wat Nation who is also an Indigenous Youth Ambassador.

The two artists joined hands and told the history and culture of their respective Nations through their powerful artwork. Both artists believe the Spo7ez story is extraordinarily important and a great reminder to both the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations to live peacefully together and share resources on the same land, as represented within these two special designs on Evolve E-Bikes in Whistler.

See the story on the fenders

Ray and Redmond’s vivid designs are now lighting up the fenders of 20 Evolve E-Bikes around Whistler, there for residents and visitors to appreciate and learn about the rich culture of each Nation.

This project is the latest initiative in the partnership between BCAA and SLCC since the launch of the e-bike share service in 2022. To better connect visitors to the heart of Whistler’s authentic Indigenous experience, we set up an e-bike parking zone in front of SLCC, and we have also collaborated with SLCC on our Inclusive Mobility Program, where we offer discounted rides to eligible riders from the community.

The Spo7ez story

“Spo7ez was an ancient village shared by the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations at Rubble Creek and the Cheakamus River,” said Redmond.

“For many years the members of both nations lived peacefully engaging in trade and commerce. However, the villagers began to disrespect one another over time and the Thunderbird decided to take action. He flapped his wings causing a volcano to erupt and a massive rockslide buried Spo7ez under a hundred metres of rock debris.

“The survivors were sent home with a message, that we are friends, family and neighbours and we need to work together. The thunderbird also sent down a lightning snake to give knowledge on how to share their resources (lightning bolts are how knowledge was sent down as well).

“This story is still told today and is evidence of the longstanding relationship between the two nations and a reminder of the importance of cooperation and a peaceful coexistence.”

The thunderbird

“In the beginning of time, the thunderbird was created to bring balance to the Earth and it still remains the messenger of the Creator,” explained Ray.

“The Squamish Nation territory is home to iconic places, including Black Tusk, where the thunderbird landed. This sacred area is a reminder that the thunderbird represents the Creator's image and brings gifts to the world.

“The geometric shapes in our blankets symbolize the mountains, waters, light and bolts from where gifts from the heavens come to Earth. These designs tell the stories of our people's history and their deep connection to the land. Let us cherish and honour these stories and connections as we strive to live in harmony with the Earth.”

Artist profiles

Chief Ray Natraoro (Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw)

Chief Ray Natraoro (Ses Siyam) is a renowned artist from Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation). He specializes in carving wood masks, rattles, totems and canoes. In addition to his carving, Natraoro has created many limited edition prints since 2007. He is also deeply involved in his people’s traditional culture, teaching the Salish language and participating in cultural singing and dancing.

As an Indigenous Youth Ambassador, Redmond Q̓áwam̓ Andrews, a young talent from Lil̓wat7ul (Lil’wat Nation), has already participated in some of the great works at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (SLCC), including the 30-foot cedar Community Reconciliation Canoe. An apprentice under Chief Ray Natraoro, he is now a Cultural Ambassador, performer and carver at the SLCC.

Learn more about local culture

In celebration of National Indigenous History Month, the SLCC will host numerous historical and cultural events from June 1 to June 30 and they’re free of charge to all. Visit slcc.ca/nihm for more details. Learn more about BCAA’s reconciliation work here.

How Evolve helps you roll around Whistler by e-bike

For more details on how Evolve E-Bikes work, visit evo.ca/evolve and check out our guide to riding electric. Enjoy!

Evolve E-Bike Share, created by BCAA, acknowledges that we operate and support British Columbians on the shared, unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and Lilwat7úl (Lil’wat) Nations, in the municipality known colonially as Whistler. We are committed to understanding our shared history as British Columbians and advancing reconciliation with Indigenous communities.