Riding for Reconcilataion
Like most people in British Columbia, the team at 7mesh lives and works on the unceded, traditional territory of the Indigenous Peoples that lived on this land since time immemorial. In our case, that's Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw Squamish Nation.
We founded 7mesh to create incredible biking apparel. But as a B.C business, we also knew we had a duty to recognise the darkest parts of our country’s history, and a responsibility to confront how outdoor adventure recreation is built upon, and can perpetuate, the legacy of colonial impact on Indigenous People and culture.
Reconcilation is a journey of commitment, of listening and learning. Our partnership with the Indigenous Youth Mountain Bike Program (IYMBP) has helped us progress along the path of understanding and action.
The IYMBP was founded to help Indigenous Youth develop active lifestyles, new skills, and connect with Traditional Territories - all through the power of mountain biking and trail building. But this work is about more than trails. It’s a vehicle for non-Indigenous who play on Indigenous lands to gain a greater understanding of what it means to stand in solidarity with Indigenous Peoples, to become allies, and work together to ensure the health of the land we all depend on.
Since 7mesh and the IYMBP started working together, we've provided funds, gear, developed a custom shirt program for trail builders and riders, and used our resources to help get media coverage for the IYMBP's important work. This coverage has included print media, and a live broadcast spot that debuted on Red Bull TV as part of our 2021 Crankworx sponsorship.
Allies
Watch Allies, a 7mesh-produced film about the people behind the Indigenous Youth Mountain Bike Program, and the important work they’re doing to reconnect, inspire and educate Indigenous Youth.
Watch Allies, a 7mesh-produced film about the people behind the Indigenous Youth Mountain Bike Program, and the important work they’re doing to reconnect, inspire and educate Indigenous Youth.
Your Journey
Knowing how to help isn't easy. But being informed is a great way to start.
What can I do to support authentic reconciliation?
Know the land you ride and play on. Who are the first Peoples who have lived and cared for the land since time out of mind? What are their stories, their history, their language and culture? Check out , a great resource on Indigenous lands and languages around the world.
Next Steps:
Take a look at , a best practices guide for engaging with Indigenous Peoples on trails and outdoor projects, authored by Patrick of the IYMBP.
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