Celebrating Black-Owned Brands of the Southern Gulf Islands

Did you know the Southern Gulf Islands were initially settled by Black immigrants in the mid-1800s? Our community, road names, and agricultural landscapes are a longstanding reminder of the rich and impactful legacy these early settlers had on the shape of the Salish Sea’s future.

Considering that February is Black History Month, it’s the perfect reminder to reflect on the Islands’ settler history and the continued contributions of our Islands’ Black community.

But why wait for February to celebrate? These Black-owned businesses in the Southern Gulf Islands are serving up incredible local produce, stylish ethically sourced goods, and more all year round.

A Short History Lesson of Salt Spring’s Earliest Settlers

When visitors explore Salt Spring for the first time, maybe winding their way along the twists of Starks Road towards their accommodation in the North End — they may not realize this is a hint about the first outside settlers to call this island home.

Starks Road is named after the Starks, one of the seven original Black families who arrived on the island during the 1800s. These families (as well as some single men) mainly arrived from San Francisco. According to the history compiled by the Salt Spring Archives: “While some of these were former slaves or children of slaves, all were free citizens of the United States when they immigrated.”

Approximately 26 Black homesteads were established on Salt Spring Island throughout the 19th century. Seeking greater freedoms, less discrimination, and a place to make a home for themselves and their families. Of course, Salt Spring and British Columbia were not free of discrimination. Still, for these Black families, the largely uncharted Gulf Islands offered greater opportunities.

And from what Salt Spring’s Archives have uncovered, people came with all sorts of skills, including “merchants, miners, farmers, educators, and others.” Still, once they landed here to preempt land, they all became homesteaders out of necessity.

There were no ferries back then, and living on Salt Spring was no easy feat. It took hard work, sweat, and probably a few tears to carve out farmland and homesteads from what was originally forests. This land was also home to cougars, bears, and wolves at the time, which threatened both the settlers and their livestock.

Since the 1800s, the original Black settlers drifted on and off the island as personal and political circumstances changed. But these contributions have continued to shape the land, farms, and the island’s cultural makeup across the centuries.

Black Owned Business Highlights from Salt Spring Island and Beyond

In February and beyond, here is where you can support the Black-owned businesses on the island.

First, swing by Mondo Trading, a store in Ganges filled with artisan-made, Fair Trade products from around the world. You know that epic market basket you saw on the arm of every local? Yes, that basket comes from Mondo. If you want to look like a local, you’ll want to grab one before you leave.

You’ll also find more woven African goods at Osisi Boutique, plus an entire emporium of mindfully sourced goods. They also have an in-store brand, Osisi Eyewear. A great spot to find comfortable linen and accessories for your adventures on the island. Check out their curated DEI bookshelf!

Looking for local art? On market days and through their online shop, you’ll find a treasure trove of hand-blown curios from Ojinika Glass. Think one-of-a-kind glass pendants, colourful ornaments, vessels, cute characters, and more. 

Then, for what may be some of the happiest fresh veg grown on the island, check out Paradise Within Farm. Everything they do is infused with love and community spirit by land stewards Satya and Carlos. They provide their produce via Local Salt and their farmstand at 255 Musgrave Road. Looking for a more immersive experience while visiting? Keep an eye on their upcoming farm-based yoga classes, retreats, and events. 

Another local land steward to check out is Lavender and Black. This lavender and botanical farm has an on-site artisan distillery and botanical apothecary. They conjure up high-end natural perfumes, body care, and other delights. Shop online or head there for a tour and a hands-on, sensory experience.

Finally, take a short ferry ride over to Pender Island to visit Islnd Grl Collective, a boutique offering a carefully curated collection of clothing and accessories. With 85% of its collection sourced from Canadian businesses, the shop celebrates unique island style while supporting local talent. Plus, the shop donates $20–$30K annually in clothing and accessories to meaningful causes.

More Than a History Note, This Is a Community

February may serve as a good reminder, but it should never be the only time of year we support the local Black-owned businesses across the Salish Sea.

The list here is by no means static, and we encourage you to check out the growing community of Black-owned businesses across BC. You can do this via the Black Entrepreneurs of BC, Afrobiz, and Black Business Association of BC. Are there any Black-owned businesses that need to be added to this list? We’d love to know!

Written by Jessica McKeil