lək̓ʷəŋən Paddle marks pledge in Commonwealth Games

The “lək̓ʷəŋən (Lekwungen) Paddle” was received by Commonwealth Sport President Chris Jenkins during an official handover ceremony held at Canada House.  

The paddle, presented by the Victoria Forum, helps to mark the commitments of the Commonwealth Sport Declaration on Reconciliation and Partnership with Indigenous Peoples ahead of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.

The ceremony took place Feb. 20. On the road to the Glasgow 2026 games, the paddle will serve as a reminder of Commonwealth Sport’s commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples around the world, and the Declaration’s 10 calls to action. 

During the 2022 Victoria Forum at UVic, participants focused on an international declaration on advancing truth, respect and reconciliation to harness the power of sport to address historical and current issues impacting Indigenous Peoples.

Designed by artist Darlene Gait of Esquimalt (Xwsepsum) Nation and carved by Carey Newman, UVic Impact Chair in Indigenous Art Practices, the Lək̓ʷəŋən Paddle also serves as a reminder of the many contributions of Indigenous Peoples to sports, including kayaking and canoeing.

Hosted by Ralph Goodale, High Commissioner for Canada in the United Kingdom, the official handover ceremony brought together Indigenous community leaders and representatives of Commonwealth Sport Canada. Read more here.

“The University of Victoria is committed to the advancement of truth, respect and reconciliation. We know that it takes cooperation and teamwork for these actions to succeed,” says Kevin Hall, president and vice-chancellor of UVic.

Athletics benefit both the individual and the community—it builds connection, self-esteem, and a sense of purpose and achievement. We are so proud that the Lək̓ʷəŋən Declaration aims to increase the accessibility of sport and recreation for Indigenous peoples around the world, because we are always at our best when we work together.”