Honouring George Taylor: A Cultural Leader Representing First Nations Globally

George Taylor, potlatch name Me’las, is a respected figure in First Nations communities and a recognized ambassador for Indigenous culture. Throughout his career, George has worked tirelessly to share the traditions of the Kwakwaka’wakw, and his First Nations culture with global audiences. Recently, Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) acknowledged George and his wife, Melanie Taylor, for their significant contributions to promoting and representing Indigenous culture.

A Life Shaped by Culture

George grew up on the Namgis Reserve in Alert Bay, British Columbia, in a family with deep ties to the Kwakwaka’wakw People. His mother, Christine Speek, was from the Tlowitsis Nation, and his father, Chief Pat Taylor, was from the Mumutagila Nation. Both parents were from chieftainship families, and George was raised in a community steeped in traditional practices, language, and teachings.

From an early age, George learned about his culture through his father, who emphasized the importance of song, dance, and storytelling. Before his passing in 2007, Chief Pat Taylor encouraged George to continue these cultural practices and share them with others. This message has guided George throughout his career.

From Social Work to Cultural Leadership

After earning a degree in Social Work in 1976, George moved to Victoria, where he worked as a social worker for several First Nations. In his work with Indigenous youth, George saw a need for programs to help young people connect to their culture meaningfully. Inspired by his father’s teachings, George founded the Le-La-La Dancers Society in 1987 with the support of local elders and chiefs.

The name Le-La-La reflects the Kwakwaka’wakw value of unity, and George’s goal was to create a space for youth to reconnect with their cultural roots. The group’s success has taken them from local performances to international stages, becoming a powerful voice for First Nations culture worldwide.

Sharing First Nations Culture Globally

Under George’s leadership, the Le-La-La Dancers Society has performed at numerous events in Canada and internationally. The group has travelled to countries like China and Mexico, where they have shared Kwakwaka’wakw songs, stories, and dances. These performances highlight the beauty and profound meaning of Indigenous art. 

The group’s regalia—cedar masks, button blankets, and headdresses—are key elements of their performances and represent the culture of the Kwakwaka’wakw Nation. George ensures that each performance is an educational experience, offering a deeper understanding of his people’s culture. This focus on cultural education has earned the Le-La-La Dancers a solid reputation in the tourism industry, known for their professionalism and the powerful messages they convey.

Well-deserved Recognition

Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) recently honoured George for his outstanding contributions to promoting First Nations culture. Brenda Baptiste, Chair of ITBC, shared her admiration for George, saying:

“George Taylor’s lifelong commitment to preserving and sharing the culture of the Kwakwaka’wakw Nation and First Nations in Canada is truly inspiring. His efforts have brought rich song, dance, and storytelling practices to audiences worldwide while creating meaningful opportunities for Indigenous youth to connect with their culture. His leadership, vision, and dedication to showcasing the beauty of Indigenous culture have earned him deep respect in the tourism industry and beyond. We are proud to honour George’s contributions and steadfast commitment to Reconciliation, education, and cultural pride.”

For George, receiving this recognition is not about personal accolades. It ensures that his culture is understood, respected, and passed on to future generations. His focus has always been on creating opportunities for youth to learn about and take pride in their cultures.

Looking Ahead

As George continues his work with the Le-La-La Dancers Society, he focuses on building connections through culture and offering educational experiences. His commitment to sharing his culture has not only impacted his community but has also helped people around the world gain a deeper understanding of First Nations cultures.

George’s leadership has also opened doors for other Indigenous artists to share their work on the global stage. His ongoing dedication to cultural education ensures that the stories of the Kwakwaka’wakw and other Indigenous communities will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.

Through his work, George Taylor has shown that art and culture are powerful tools for connection.