How a Community-Built Tiny Home in Victoria Supports Gitxsan Indigenous Stewardship and Environmental Advocacy in Northern B.C.

Victoria recently witnessed a remarkable display of community spirit with the construction of a tiny home at the University of Victoria’s Campus Community Gardens. Initiated by Laurie Storrie and executed by around 120 volunteers, this project was completed in an impressive two weeks.

The tiny home is more than just a structure—it is a symbol of collective action. Volunteers united with a shared goal to build a supportive shelter, proving that every contribution, no matter how small, matters in the pursuit of a greater cause.

The home is set to travel over 1,000 kilometres north to support Teresa Brown, a dedicated Gitxsan woman. Brown plans to use the tiny home as her base at a dog sanctuary in Gitxsan territory, a courageous step in preserving her nation’s traditional lands. As one organizer aptly described, this initiative acts as a “resistance camp” for Indigenous leaders to maintain a safe space on their native soil.

The project comes at a crucial time, coinciding with developments around the Prince Rupert Gas Transmission (PRGT) pipeline project. Recently greenlit to proceed under its existing environmental assessment permit, the pipeline’s new ownership—now including the Nisg̱a’a Nation and Western LNG—brings both opportunity and concern. While some view this as an important step towards Indigenous self-determination, others worry about potential environmental impacts, particularly on salmon populations and traditional food systems.

This initiative serves as a tangible reminder of how community-driven efforts can support Indigenous rights and environmental conservation. Through their dedication, the volunteers and organizers have built more than just a home—they have crafted a space that symbolizes hope, self-governance, and the promise of a more compassionate future for all.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: What inspired the construction of the tiny home?

  A: The project was inspired by the need to support Gitxsan stewardship and provide a safe space for Indigenous leadership amid environmental and developmental challenges.

• Q: How did the community come together for this project?

  A: Nearly 120 volunteers worked tirelessly over two weeks, showcasing a strong community spirit and a commitment to collective action for a greater cause.

• Q: What are the broader implications of the PRGT pipeline project?

  A: While the pipeline project paves the way for potential Indigenous economic participation, it has also raised concerns about environmental impacts and threats to traditional ways of life among several Nations.