It’s looking more and more possible that Vancouver and Whistler will once again host the Winter Olympics in 2030. While the cities hosted the Olympics in 2010, the 2030 events would be run and led by four First Nations, the Lilwat, Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations.
The four First Nations, Vancouver, and Whistler announced their partnership in exploring a possible bid for the Olympics in early December. On Tuesday, February 1st, it was revealed that feasibility assessments and initial concept developments will begin soon to continue the exploration into a bid. The Canadian Olympic Committee intends to fully fund the technical and engagement factors for the feasibility assessment.
“With this collaboration agreement, our nations have a unique opportunity to work closely with the Canadian Olympic and Paralympic Committees to determine the impacts and benefits of bringing the 2030 Winter Games back to our territories.” – Masqueam Chief Wayne Sparrow
This is only the beginning of the process, and there’s no guarantee that the Olympics will be held in Vancouver and Whistler for 2030, but this is the beginning of the first Indigenous led bid for the Olympics, and could possible turn into the first Indigenous led Olympic Games.
The decision to submit a formal bid to host the Olympic Games will not be made until at least the Fall of 2022. The Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics began on February 4th and will continue until February 20th.
Image Credits: Whistler Blackcomb and The Olympic Games on Instagram
