Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Maritime Achievement awarded to Tla-o-qui-aht Master Carver Tutakwisnapšiƛ Joe Martin

Tla-o-qui-aht Master Carver Tutakwisnapšiƛ Joe Martin received the Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Maritime Achievement today at Government House in Victoria, BC. Joe was recognized for the award for his decades-long commitment to traditional Nuu-chah-nulth canoe making, mentorship work, culture and forest protection.

The Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Maritime Achievement recognizes and acknowledges individuals and organizations along British Columbia’s coast and inland waterways who have made noteworthy contributions to BC’s maritime interests in the areas of science, technology, business, applications of maritime skills, nautical heritage and culture, art, and academic endeavours. The expanded scope of the award also recognizes Indigenous and traditional practices, and environmental stewardship.

Joe was presented with the award by The Honourable Wendy Cocchia, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia. Joe’s daughter, Tsimka Martin, attended the event with her father in support. The Lieutenant Governor represents His Majesty, the King of England, in the province.

Government House and the City of Victoria are on the lands of the lək̓ʷəŋən People, now known as the Songhees Nation and Xʷsepsəm Nation.

Photography: Christopher Roy | @christopherroy