The Local Weekly The heart and soul of our communities with news and information about the Sunshine Coast
The recent stormy Fall weather is conducive to taking time to reflect on what is important in the life of our community. Of utmost priority is for each of us to be aware and informed about the recommendations of Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) final report. As part of our important role in sharing accurate information that is relevant to our community, the library has partnered with Reconciliation Canada and the Squamish Nation to raise local awareness of the mandate of the TRC which honours both Aboriginal peoples and Canadians in a process of reconciliation and renewed relationships.
Released in December 2015, Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Committee’s final report contains important historical details and first-hand accounts of what happened in residential schools, as well as 10 guiding principles and 94 recommendations or “Calls to Action”. These Calls to Action are steps that all Canadians can take towards improving the lives of Aboriginal Peoples. All Canadians are encouraged to read “Honouring the Truth, Reconciling for the Future”, the executive summary of the final report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. The summary is available at the Gibsons and District Public library in hard copy in English and French, and online.
An evening to honour our community commitment to Reconciliation will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 16 from 5:30-7:30pm at GDPL with special guest speaker Shelley Joseph from Reconciliation Canada, and a welcoming prayer and words from honoured Elders from the Squamish Nation: Shirley Toman (Hum-te-ya), Bob Baker (Ki yowil) and Gwen Harry (T’chesa). RSVP is required for this event; please call 604-886-2130.
This month’s article is written by Heather Evans-Cullen, the Library’s Outreach Community and Partnership Coordinator. Heather is responsible for connecting with community partners and individuals, ensuring the Library is meeting the needs of our community. If you have questions about any Library programs or services call the Library at 604-886-2130 or visit our website: gibsons.bc.libraries.coop.
