Our commitment to equity extends beyond our walls.
Throughout the year, we partnered with community organizations to host and participate in events that create space for learning, reflection, and celebration — marking occasions such as Pride, Black History Month, and Truth and Reconciliation.
These moments are opportunities to listen, build relationships, and deepen our understanding of the communities we serve — while reinforcing our shared commitment to equity and inclusion.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
This year, we had the privilege of hosting a Trust and Reconciliation Community Event in partnership with the Ralph Thornton Community Centre — a gathering rooted in relationship, learning, and shared reflection.
From the moment the event began with an Indigenous drumming session, there was a sense of grounding and connection that carried throughout the day. An Indigenous Elder also led with a smudging ceremony, creating a space of welcome, respect, and intention for all who attended.
Throughout the event, Indigenous Elders, knowledge keepers, and vendors generously shared teachings, stories, and creative works. A Sweetgrass Infusion workshop offered participants the opportunity to learn about sweetgrass as a medicine, including its cultural significance and the importance of accessible, smoke-free alternatives in spaces where traditional practices may not always be possible. Together, participants prepared sweetgrass infusions that can be strained into a gentle mist — allowing people to carry their medicine with them in daily life.
The day also included a presentation from staff on pre-colonial landscapes and reconciliation, exploring how colonization has shaped food systems. Across these moments of learning, approximately 110 people from the community attended—including many families and young children, and several people entering our doors for the first time.
What stood out most was the openness in the room. Conversations unfolded naturally between community members, Elders, knowledge keepers, and staff — often around topics that can be difficult, but are necessary for truth and reconciliation.
For Amanda Spanish, a community member and beadwork artist, participating in the event was deeply meaningful:
“Being there made me feel really good — like I was part of something important. I got to share my beading, connect with people I hadn’t seen in years, and meet new people too. For me, it was about helping people learn more about Truth and Reconciliation and honouring the day by sharing a part of my culture.”
The event was a meaningful step in strengthening relationships with community and continuing to create space for learning, reflection, and honest dialogue — work that remains ongoing and deeply important.