In the heart of the Northern British Columbia Coast, a profound journey of reclamation and cultural revival has been unfolding. The Haida Nation, with its rich heritage and deep connection to the land and sea, has been at the forefront of this transformation. This story begins in 1787, when Captain George Dixon surveyed the islands. He named the islands the Queen Charlotte Islands after his ship, the Queen Charlotte, which was named after Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, wife of King George III of the United Kingdom.
In 2010, the Haida restored the name Haida Gwaii, which translates to “Islands of the People.” Haida held a ceremony to respectfully return the name Queen Charlotte. Since then, an incredible transformation has taken place. The Haida reveals to the island communities and the world an ancient living culture through art, language, and place names. These all celebrate an intimacy with the lands and seas and reveal a depth of knowledge of this place collected over millennia.
Queen Charlotte Safaris is making a transition to Haida Gwaii Safaris to properly celebrate and acknowledge the people and Haida title. Honoring the lands and seas in this way, through place names, brings us closer and will continue to inspire our safaris to be the trip of a lifetime. We aim to create deeper connections to one another and this beautiful place, Haida Gwaii.
Haawa, (Thank you) for being a part of this transition with us!
-Valerie and Haida Gwaii Safaris Team
