Repatriation Monologues

Presented in conjunction with The Work of Repair: Redress & Repatriation at the Museum of Vancouver, this panel brings together voices reflecting on the complex, often deeply personal work of repatriation. 

Moderated by Aaron LaMaskin, the conversation will focus on the Museum of Vancouver’s collaboration with the Tŝilhqot’in National Government to return over 60 ancestral belongings—the Nation’s first repatriation from the Museum, completed in 2024. 

Through individual reflections and shared dialogue, the panel will explore the emotional and cultural impact of repatriation, the challenges of institutional change, and the ongoing responsibilities museums face in redressing colonial harm. 

“Repatriation Monologues” invites attendees to consider what meaningful repair looks like—and how museums can support Indigenous sovereignty, cultural resurgence, and the return of stories to where they belong. 

Please arrive early with your event ticket to view the exhibition. 

Date: Saturday, March 21, 2026 

Time: 1:00pm-2:30pm. 

Location: Museum of Vancouver

Tickets: 

• $24 General Admission 

• Free for people who self-identify as Indigenous 

(plus, fees and taxes) 

 

About the Speakers:

Moderated by Aaron LaMaskin, speakers will include those with repatriation experience from Indigenous communities as well as museums.

Aaron LaMaskin

“My work focuses on understanding the process of repatriation and aiding Indigenous communities in making repatriation claims for their heritage. My prior work emphasized the processes of provenance research and on the politics of submitting a repatriation claim. Currently, my Ph.D. research assists with the Tsilhqot'in National Government's repatriation initiatives, developing a traveling museum exhibit, and aiding the TNG to develop the creation of a cultural centre.”

Leia Patterson

Having gained experience in educational programming at art galleries and museums throughout her student career, Leia moved from Ontario to British Columbia after completing her Post-Graduate Certificate in Museum & Gallery Studies. She immersed herself in repatriation work with Indigenous Communities at Nuyumbalees Cultural Centre and later, at Klahoose First Nation. When reflecting on those experiences, Leia describes it as ‘unlearning and relearning’ museum practices. She uses those experiences combined with new knowledge in her role as Reconciliation Resource Advisor at the BC Museums Association, a non-profit that supports museum professionals and volunteers in BC’s Cultural Sector.

James McGuire

SGaan Kwahagang James McGuire, a citizen of the Haida Nation’s G̲aag'yals K̲iiG̲awaay clan, is the Director of Indigenous Collections, Archeology, and Repatriation at the Royal BC Museum. Rooted in ancestral teachings, he is a dedicated advocate for cultural education and repatriation. A multifaceted community leader, James is also an award-winning production designer, musician, traditional metalworker, and oral historian committed to shifting perspectives on Indigenous histories.

Tŝilhqot’in Youth

Featuring the voices and perspectives of Dakota Diablo, Payel Laceese, and Chantu Williams.