West Vancouver, B.C. — As the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation approaches on September 30, the West Vancouver Memorial Library invites you to attend a series of powerful programs and explore essential resources dedicated to education and action.
Programs
- Celebrate the launch of the Skw’shítsut/Skw’shétsut – Skwxwú7mesh Sníchim Language Kits
Tuesday, September 24, 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Join us on our rooftop garden, Swáy̓wi temíxw, for traditional storytelling with Tsitsáyxemaat, bannock, and prizes! - Art Talk featuring Aaron Nelson-Moody (aka Splash)
Thursday, September 26, 7 – 8 p.m.
Join West Vancouver Art Museum Assistant Curator Alison Powell for a conversation with artist Aaron Nelson-Moody/Tawx’sin Yexwulla about his activism and advocacy work and the collaborative nature of his working style. - Raising the Survivor’s Flag at Municipal Hall
Friday, September 27, 9 – 10 a.m.
Wear your orange shirt and join us for the raising of the Survivors’ flag to show support for Indigenous people and to honour the survivors and intergenerational survivors of the Residential School system and its lasting effects. - Storytelling, Songs, and Crafts with Lisa Lewis | Ages 5-9
Saturday, September 28, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Spend Saturday morning with Squamish Nation author Lisa Lewis. She will share the story of Tsunaxen’s Journey, teach traditional songs, and guide children through a craft activity. - Movie Matinée Double_Feature: Beyond Being Silenced and WAAYDANAA
Saturday, September 28, 2 – 3 p.m.
This double-feature screening explores Haida culture and resilience through two impactful films. Beyond Being Silenced: Gyaa Isdlaa follows Haida artist Robert Davidson as he stages a potlatch to honour Indigenous resilience, acknowledging past abuses while celebrating cultural renewal. Waaydanaa: Now is the Time revisits the historic moment when 22-year-old Davidson carved and raised the first new totem pole on Haida Gwaii in nearly a century, marking the rebirth of the Haida spirit. - Movie Matinée: Bones of Crows
Monday, September 30, 2 – 4:15 p.m.
Bones of Crows tells the epic story of Cree matriarch Aline Spears, chronicling her experiences in the residential school system and the intergenerational impact on her family. This film offers an unflinching portrayal of the long-lasting effects of systemic injustice on Indigenous communities.
In addition to these programs, the Library encourages patrons to explore curated booklists and resources on reconciliation:
Reading and watching
- Browse our Honouring Truth and Reconciliation booklist
- Borrow an ebook or audiobook for adults: Overdrive list
- Check out an Indigenous Film on DVD
- For kids and teens, borrow an ebook or listen to an audiobook from this Indigenous Authors for Kids + Teens OverDrive list or borrow books from here.
Resources and more
- Borrow Walking in Good Relations: A Sínulkhay & Ladders Game for Unlearning Anti-Indigenous Racism
- Browse our Residential Schools in Canada’s recommended resources
- Check out our National Day for Truth and Reconciliation recommended resource page
- Browse our Indigenous Peoples in Canada recommended resources
- Borrow a copy of the Final Report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada
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Media contact:
Sarah Barton-Bridges, Head of Communications
sbarton-bridges@westvanlibrary.ca
604.925.7407