The wisdom and knowledge of the Indigenous peoples are inestimably precious–it is a living heritage that must be protected and preserved for the benefit of all.
This collective memory, which encompasses culture, beliefs, customs and ways of living, is passed on from one generation to the next since time immemorial with the utmost respect for tradition. Several museums and cultural attractions now actively promote the wider sharing of this Indigenous knowledge from a positive and educational approach. They target Indigenous communities as well as the general public. It is an approach that is essential, modern, dynamic and fun at the same time.
Memory museums
They do a brilliant job in preserving and promoting Indigenous heritage. Rich collections including works of art, photographs, stories, artifacts, reproductions among others await visitors. The museums also offer guided tours, activities and workshops that take visitors into the heart of history and the imagination of Indigenous peoples. Lively and increasingly interactive, like the Cree Cultural Institute, the Musée des Abénakis (Quebec’s oldest), the Huron-Wendat Museum, La Maison amérindienne, the Maison de la culture innue, the Musée amérindien de Mashteuiatsh or the Musée Shaputuan. Indigenous museums are surfing the wave of innovation! Some of them provide virtual tours on their website to give visitors a sneak peek into what they have to offer.
Immersive Indigenous experience
Although this transmission happens within the communities, visitors eager to learn more are welcome. Cultural sites and interpretation centres are excellent ambassadors in sharing the cultural heritage of the community. Traditional camps are sometimes reconstituted, allowing visitors to learn about Indigenous peoples, their history and culture, as well as their medicinal, culinary and linguistic knowledge and craftsmanship via demonstrations. The sharing of knowledge and ancestral practices is usually done in a participatory manner, orally, through gestures, interaction and play.
Visit our art and culture section to discover the diversity of our offer on Indigenous Québec!