Lacrosse has been played by Indigenous peoples across North America for hundreds of years, long before it was introduced to settlers. It is deeply intertwined within the history and culture of many Indigenous nations and communities. In Haudenosaunee culture, Tewaarathon (lacrosse) was viewed as a gift from the Creator, acknowledging the Creator’s life forces and honouring the Elders and their nations. Lacrosse was also used to resolve conflicts and restore balance among nations; it was used as a powerful source of physical and spiritual healing. We would like to recognize all the nations across Turtle Island who have shared their knowledge, history, and love of lacrosse.

​

Specifically, we at Burnaby Minor Lacrosse Association would like to recognize, honour, and respect the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səl̓ilwətaɁɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Coast Salish peoples whose traditional territories our community is practicing, playing and living on. As the sport of lacrosse has grown and we travel as guests to other communities to compete,  we would like to recognize among others, our neighbors the Semiahmoo, Katzie, Kwikwetlem, Kwantlen, Hwiltsum, and Qayqayt First Nations. The relationship that these nations have with the land is both historic and ongoing.

​

We are committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment for our players and their families, and to recognizing, respecting, and naming the contributions that Indigenous communities have made to the sport. We strive to recognize the importance of lacrosse in our collective history and honour the traditional game by teaching and instilling the values of respect, sportsmanship, and team spirit.