Vancouver builds on Indigenous partnerships through FIFA World Cup
First Nations helped shape World Cup planning and will receive funding for legacy projects
Vancouver's FIFA World Cup organizers partnered with the Squamish, Musqueam and Tsleil-Waututh nations to help plan the tournament and highlight Indigenous cultures, according to reporting from The Associated Press. The collaboration builds on a model established during the 2010 Winter Olympics, when Indigenous communities were recognized by the International Olympic Committee as official host partners. FIFA also made Indigenous engagement a central part of its sustainability and human rights strategy for the 2026 World Cup, the AP reported.
Each of the three First Nations will receive $6 million for legacy projects tied to the tournament, according to The Associated Press reporting. The Squamish Nation plans to build a youth soccer field in West Vancouver. Tewanee Joseph of the Squamish Nation said the partnerships provide opportunities to share the diversity of Indigenous cultures while creating lasting benefits for First Nations communities.
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