Language carries more than words alone — it carries story, identity and connection. For Darrin Brager, a proud Métis person and long-time BCLC employee, this idea holds significance.
A speaker of three languages, including English and two dialects of Chinook Wawa/Jargon, Darrin says he’s passionate about “keeping a foot in the past to create better things in the future.” When he finishes his day as a software developer at BCLC, he turns to Indigenous language learning. He runs a Discord group for the world’s experts on Chinook Wawa/Jargon and meets with his friends every Wednesday night to help preserve and revitalize the language.
It was while scanning the catalogue of GameSense brochures at Chances Castlegar that Darrin noticed something missing. The materials were available in several languages – French, Simplified Chinese, Punjabi, and more – but none of them were Indigenous. That moment sparked an idea: what if these resources spoke to people in the languages of the land on which they are available?
When Darrin brought his idea forward, he shared it directly with BCLC’s CEO, Pat Davis, who immediately saw the value in making GameSense materials more inclusive. Pat didn’t just listen, he encouraged BCLC’s player health team to prioritize the project.
His quick action helped turn one employee’s idea into a meaningful initiative that’s now reaching more people across the province. With guidance from the respective Indigenous language communities, GameSense brochures are available in Chinook Jargon and Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Sníchim (Squamish language), with more languages on the way.
“It’s not just about a pamphlet,” Darrin says. “Seeing your language represented—it helps bring back and preserve culture. It builds connection. As I’ve learned more about Chinook Jargon, I’ve discovered and connected with parts of my culture and history that I didn’t know before.”
For Happie Poonian, GameSense Team Lead at Chances Squamish, the impact of these new brochures is already clear.
“When someone sees a brochure in their own language, it means something -- it shows we care. I see how it creates a sense of comfort and connection with our players, how it makes the casino experience more welcoming and reflective of the communities who walk through our doors. It can turn a brochure into a bridge.”
Beyond translated materials, BCLC’s player health team is also focused on creating safer, more culturally aware spaces in casinos. GameSense is BCLC’s player health program, designed to help people make informed choices about gambling. GameSense Advisors complete training in cultural sensitivity and trauma-informed care through programs like San’yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Training. These efforts help advisors build thoughtful, respectful connections with players by helping foster trust and belonging.
While brochures are just one part of this program, making them available in Indigenous languages is a small way BCLC recognizes the deep roots of the communities where its casinos operate – and honours the histories, cultures and languages of Indigenous peoples that have long shaped these lands.
As Darrin puts it, “I’m really encouraged by this progress. It’s a small step, but it’s a meaningful one for BCLC – it’s encouraging for our future.”
June 21st is National Indigenous Peoples Day in Canada. Learn more about BCLC’s commitment to establish and maintain good relations with Indigenous Peoples in our province.
