BC Library Conference 2020

Connection to Kith and Kin, a "tech-cafe" style Indigenous genealogy program at Vancouver Public Library (VPL), is an example of how public libraries build social infrastructure through community-led programming with Indigenous communities through partnership and continual institutional efforts to decolonize our practices.

Some delegates may have heard VPL's 2019 BCLA presentation on the new Connection to Kith and Kin program. In 2020, we will explore the process and results after a year's time, including challenges and successes.

Connection to Kith and Kin blossomed from Indigenous youths' request for more family information from library resources. VPL responded to urban Indigenous leaders' request to lead similar workshops for all ages. Since March, 2019, approximately 85 Indigenous individuals have deepened their understanding of their families, identity, connection to land, and enabled some to apply for status.

Access to this information is particularly critical for the urban Indigenous population. 80% of BC's Indigenous people live off-reserve, and connections with heritage and family cannot be assumed. Libraries have an obligation to make heritage information accessible to their Indigenous communities. This community-led program demonstrates the importance of longstanding relationships with Indigenous community partners.