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September 2023 by Geoff Molyneux
Great place to see the old way of life of First Nations People.
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August 2023 by Outand About
This is a very important and special space! Canadians and the world need to know the history of the Original Peoples of this land now known as Canada. This Cultural Center shares the incredible beauty of the West Coast/Gulf Islands People and their culture, beliefs, arts as well as exemplary stewardship of the land and water. A must see.
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July 2023 by Van Royko
What an amazing gallery. One of the most historically significant places I have ever been.
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May 2023 by Suzanne Jolly
I was very impressed with the variety of masks and the way in which they’ve built the centre to allow people to not have to see everything behind glass. They’ve done an excellent job of sharing about culture and also sharing about oppression and how it impacted their peoples.I’ll always be grateful to Jessica took the time to share some stories and show me through the centre. Its a moving place but especially moving to meet someone from the community who is willing to share.
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April 2023 by Stan Lynn Homer
Great collection of history.
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March 2023 by Dale Stiles
Friendly people, great souvenir shop and very interesting and informative tour of the cultural centre by the very authentic, knowledgeable and talented Wayne Alfred.
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September 2022 by Jason V.
One of the top Indigenous cultural centres I’ve ever been. Up there with the Haida in Sandspit. Amazing First Nation pieces presented in a stunning space. Moving. Sad. Beautiful. Educational. It’s all there. Highly recommend visiting it.
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August 2022 by Jon Cook
The U'mista cultural center was a phenomenonal expierance. It's an absolute must when visiting Alert Bay.-Friendly staff.-Well organized.-Helpful and Knowledgeable.We had a great time visiting and learning about the culture of the community.Will absolutely be revisting.
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August 2022 by Conor Graham
This is such a powerful place and experience. The exhibits explaining the different purposes for the specific artifacts are so interesting. The area offering cultural context for why and how they were taken in the first place and the people who kept the traditions alive while they were forbidden is SO powerful. And the gift shop has the best selection I have ever seen at any museum of original indigenous art. Any of these three separate things would be worth the trip but to have all three in one location makes this something to base an entire trip around. Go here as soon as you possibly can.
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August 2022 by Sara Romano
Seeing all the items in the cultural centre was amazing. The amount of care and stories shared was fulfilling. They have a residential school door on display which is haunting to look at. Please if you are in the area take the time to stop by and respectfully enjoy the culture and stories of the indigenous people of alert bay.
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August 2022 by Samantha Poitras
I couldn't believe how beautifully preserved the masks and carving were. The incredible culture displayed so tastefully.So much to learn about Alert Bay and the first people who reside there for generations.They have a gorgeous gift shop with clothing, mugs, jewelry, hats, books, games, cards and more!It stands next to where the Residential School was, which is now a field and parking lot.I highly recommend visiting here to learning about the first people of the area.
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August 2022 by Gr8t outdoors
Truly the best display I have ever been too it is better than some of the largest in Canada. I think every Canadian (and tourists from out of Country) should come see the amazing displays especially the amazing potlatch gallery. I will come back to see it again as it is that good. Also make time to explore the island as there is so much to see
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August 2022 by Bill Hepler
A really well set up small museum. I think it's the nicest small museum I have in. Beautiful and interesting exhibits relating to the history of local first Nations groups. I found the presentations interesting and emotionally engaging.Definitely worth a visit if you are in Alert Bay.
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August 2022 by Carolyn Soucie
Amazing Potlatch Collection. Very interesting to learn about the different masks and dances. I would highly recommend going on a Saturday so you can experience the museum AND purchase the T'sasala Dancers ticket who perform at 1pm. (Performances are only available summer July and August)
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August 2022 by Thomas Price
An amazing culture experience! Canadians must see and educate themselves on their pasted history for a greater understanding on the road of reconciliation. The historical timeline presented inside is well presented. Or visit the exibition on line.