Burnaby offers Truth and Reconciliation activities throughout September

The City of Burnaby is hosting events and activities throughout September in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Residents are invited to learn about Indigenous cultures, reflect on the legacy of residential schools and support ongoing reconciliation efforts.

The City recognized children who never returned home, residential school survivors, and their families and communities. Mayor Mike Hurley said Burnaby is committed to meaningful action and to respectful, productive relationships with the Host Nations whose histories, cultures and stewardship are deeply connected to the land. He said reconciliation also requires opportunities for all community members to engage with the subject.

Mayor and Council, Host Nations representatives and community members will raise the Every Child Matters and Survivors' flags at City Hall at noon on Tuesday, Sept. 8. The ceremony recognizes residential school survivors, children who never returned home, and their families and communities.

Burnaby’s fourth annual Hope and Health Community Camp will take place Saturday, Sept. 19, bringing together hundreds of children and youth for soccer, cultural teachings, Indigenous arts and crafts, and learning opportunities intended to support reconciliation through sport and community connection.

An author talk on Monday, Sept. 14, at the Bob Prittie Metrotown Library will feature Reconciling: A Lifelong Struggle to Belong, the memoir of Musqueam Elder Larry Grant. On Thursday, Sept. 24, the City and the Burnaby Board of Trade will co-host Building Indigenous Partnerships: An Inclusive Economic Future, where First Nations Financial Management Board CEO Scott Munro will discuss opportunities for meaningful reconciliation and stronger partnerships among First Nations, businesses and communities.

The month-long program also includes events, sport, Indigenous art displays and workshops for residents of all ages. Participants can learn from Indigenous leaders, authors, knowledge holders and community members, including about the Host Nations whose ancestors have occupied and used these lands, including parts of present-day Burnaby, for thousands of years. Registration and further information are available at Burnaby.ca/TruthAndReconciliation.