Brenda (Xyolholemo:t) L. Crabtree, a distinguished alumna of the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV), has been appointed to the Order of British Columbia in recognition of her extraordinary contributions to Indigenous art, culture, and education. This prestigious accolade acknowledges her dedicated work in revitalizing and promoting Indigenous heritage for more than 40 years, making a profound impact on communities locally, nationally, and internationally. 

Xyolholemo:t is of Nlaka’pamux and Stó:lō ancestry and a member of the Spuzzum First Nation. She began her academic journey in the late 1980s at UFV (then known as FVC), where she pursued a two-year Academic Studies diploma while balancing family responsibilities. Inspired by her professors and motivated by her Indigenous heritage, she continued her studies and earned a BA and MA in cultural anthropology from Western Washington University. 

“Receiving the Order of British Columbia is a profound honour, and I am deeply humbled. This recognition is not just for me but for all the Indigenous artists and communities I’ve had the privilege of working with,” she says.  

A pivotal figure in reconnecting Indigenous artists with their culture, Brenda has been instrumental in overcoming the legacy of Residential Schools through her work. As the Director of Aboriginal Programs at Emily Carr University of Art and Design, she has fostered a supportive environment for Indigenous students and artists. Brenda was instrumental in the creation of the Aboriginal Gathering Place at Emily Carr and the facilitation of an agreement with the Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Art — both of which have played a key role in enhancing educational pathways for Indigenous students. 

Brenda’s contributions to Indigenous art and culture go beyond academia. Her work with the YVR Art Foundation and the BC Achievement Awards has supported countless emerging artists, and she played a crucial role in the First Nations Art award program and the establishment of the Crabtree McLennan Emerging Artist designation. Her efforts in raising significant funds for Indigenous initiatives and expanding art exhibitions have been vital in supporting and preserving Indigenous culture. 

Her influence is felt internationally as well, with cultural exchanges between British Columbia and Indigenous communities in New Zealand and Hawaii. Brenda’s tireless advocacy for Indigenous artists has earned her recognition as an enduring champion for Indigenous artists by the BC Achievement Foundation. 

The recognition from the Order of British Columbia is a fitting tribute to Brenda’s lifelong dedication to cultural preservation and reconciliation. As Premier David Eby noted, “You represent the best of the best in our province and serve as an example to us all.” 

Brenda’s legacy ensures that Indigenous art and culture will continue to be celebrated and preserved for future generations. 

Brenda says, “I remain committed to fostering cultural connections and supporting Indigenous artists on their creative journeys going forward. Our art carries the stories of our ancestors, and my life’s work has been to ensure these stories are preserved and shared with future generations.”