The Montreal Botanical Garden is marking the 25th anniversary of its First Nations Garden by renaming it the Indigenous Peoples Garden.
The change is intended to better reflect all Indigenous communities in Quebec, including both First Nations and Inuit.
“Walk, just look, connect with her, mother earth,” said Anicinape Hereditary Chief & co-founder of the Garden, Dominique Rankin. “I told people, go, to Jardin Botanique go, go see over there. And that’s what happened today. We need that today again.”
Announced Tuesday by Espace pour la vie, the organization says the new name coincides with a renewed commitment to working in partnership with Indigenous communities and ensuring Indigenous voices continue to shape the garden’s future.
Originally opened on Aug. 3, 2001, during celebrations marking the 300th anniversary of the Great Peace of Montreal, the garden was developed through close collaboration with representatives of Quebec’s 11 Indigenous Nations.
Since then, it has served as a place for education, cultural exchange and ceremony, while showcasing Indigenous knowledge and the deep relationship between Indigenous Peoples and the land.
The anniversary also aligns with the 325th anniversary of the Great Peace of Montreal, the 1701 treaty signed between New France and dozens of First Nations.
Both anniversaries were honoured on Tuesday through a blessing ceremony and guided visit of the garden.
To celebrate the milestone, the Botanical Garden is offering guided tours, outdoor exhibitions and cultural programming throughout the summer and fall, including a new nighttime experience during Gardens of Light in September featuring stories, music and artistic installations inspired by the 11 Indigenous Nations of Quebec.
Officials say the Indigenous Peoples Garden will continue to evolve in collaboration with Indigenous communities, ensuring it remains a meaningful space for future generations.
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