Canada Day celebrations have not been cancelled on the North Shore, but residents are being encouraged to reflect on the country’s past and to wear orange in support of Indigenous communities.
While some places, including Victoria and the City of Burnaby, have decided to “pause Canada Day” after the discoveries of unmarked graves at residential schools, the festivities – with COVID-19 regulations in mind – will still go ahead in North and West Vancouver, but the mayors say they expect it will be quieter than usual.
District of West Vancouver mayor Mary-Ann Booth said in light of the devastating news of the discovery of the remains of 215 children at the Kamloops Residential School in late May, the district considered cancelling Canada Day celebrations.
“However, we decided to take advantage of this opportunity to promote discussion and dialogue,” she said. “Today’s (June 24) news about the discovery of 751 unmarked graves at a former residential school in Saskatchewan reinforces the need for keeping this topic front of mind."
Seeking guidance, Booth spoke with Squamish Nation leaders and asked for their suggestions as to what the district should do for Canada Day. In response, the district created a webpage to help residents learn more about First Nations history, including a link to watch the recommended National Film Board of Canada film We Were Children.
"Canada Day gives us an opportunity to help West Vancouver residents learn about Truth and Reconciliation, and reflect on how we can do better in the future," Booth said.
On July 1, from 6 to 7 p.m. there will be live musical performances from rooftops in the Ambleside, Dundarave, and Horseshoe Bay neighbourhoods. At 7 p.m., the district is calling for a moment of silence instead of the traditional cheer.
“We encourage you to wear orange and display a message on your window in support of Indigenous communities in Canada,” Booth said.
Meanwhile, both the city and district of North Vancouver leave the organization of Canada Day events to Rotary clubs. Like last year, the Rotary Club of Lions Gate North Vancouver has organized a scaled-down virtual celebration to meet COVID-19 safety protocols, which includes a line-up of local musicians and performers live online from 1 p.m. on Thursday.
“I have been involved with Canada Day celebrations on the North Shore for a long time and there is no question that this year things will be different,” District of North Vancouver mayor Mike Little said.
“Canada Day in the district will be quieter and more subdued, due to both the recent news about residential schools and due to the Provincial Health Officer’s public gathering restrictions.”
Reflecting on past years, Little said as a community, the district has always come together to celebrate and were often joined by their neighbours and partners from the Tsleil-Waututh and Squamish Nations.
“From inspiring us with performances to sharing blessings from Elders, their involvement is part of what makes Canada Day in the District so special,” he said. “It is my hope that we continue to share their stories and celebrate their heritage whenever we have a chance and especially as part of future Canada Day celebrations.
“Though we know this year will be different, I expect many district residents will spend the day with family, friends or community, and take time to rest and reflect.”
City of North Vancouver mayor Linda Buchanan also encouraged a day of reflection.
“The past year and half has been very difficult for people,” she said.
“I’m so proud of how this community has come together to support one another. But the truth is we can do better by each other. The past few weeks have called on all of us to reflect further on the impacts of Canada’s residential school system, including the impacts still being felt today.”
Buchanan added that “as a community we must reckon with this, and commit ourselves to action.”
“This Canada Day is heavier than year’s past,” she said. “That is why I will be spending the day reflecting on further steps I can take to create a more equitable, inclusive, safe, and just community.
“I do hope others join me in that.”
Elisia Seeber is the North Shore News’ Indigenous and civic affairs reporter. This reporting beat is made possible by the Local Journalism Initiative.
