Cultural Signs: Walking the land

In 2022, the Sorrento Centre launched an initiative with the Switzmalph Cultural Society to create signs in English and Secwepemc that introduce plants, bushes, and trees to the guests and visitors who come to visit this beautiful land. Bonnie Thomas and Valerie Van Tine Janzen from The Cultural Society began working with the Centre, starting with a walkabout of the main campus.

Valerie Van Tine Janzen was mentored by Secwepemc elder and botanist Dr. Mary Thomas, and in 2025, confirmed the places for our first ten Secwepemc cultural signs. The signs have been mounted and mark trees and bushes with links using a QR code for more information about medicinal, cultural, nutritional, and spiritual values. Bonnie Thomas, Valerie, and the Switzmalph Cultural Society are partners in this important work.

Sorrento Centre’s land acknowledgement statement: We acknowledge that this place we call Sorrento is part of Secwepemcúl’ecw, the traditional and unceded territory of the Secwépemc people. Since time immemorial, they have sought to live gently on this land. They offered assistance to the first European travellers to their territory and shared their knowledge of survival in what was, at times, a harsh climate. We seek a new relationship with the Original People of this land, one based in honour, deep respect and radical kindness.