MONOVA, the Museum of North Vancouver is set to embark on a month-long journey of reflection, learning, and dialogue as they commemorate Truth and Reconciliation through a series of engaging events.
This dynamic and innovative community hub is where the stories of North Vancouver’s people, places and past come to life.
“The beauty of the museum is allowing us to have the space and using the venue to show who we are and where we come from,” Tsawaysia Spukwus, MONOVA’s Coast Salish Cultural Programmer, says.
“This is a great time to reflect and to learn.”
With programming for all ages, MONOVA has a full slate of activities for September 2023 to engage the North Van community in the work of Truth and Reconciliation.
Scrapbooking with Tsawaysia Spukwus - September 7
The month kicks off with an immersive scrapbooking experience led by Spukwus. Participants will have the opportunity to craft memories for future generations, all while enjoying traditional tea, music, and conversations. This drop-in program encourages attendees to bring their personal photographs and memorabilia to create unique scrapbooks that tell their stories.
“I share legends while they scrapbook. We share the teachings of the connections to the land and the respect we have for her,” Spukwus says.
Connections Speaker Series - Reconciliation through Storytelling - September 14
Chief Dr. Robert Joseph, O.B.C., a hereditary chief of the Gwawaenuk First Nation, will take the stage at MONOVA's Connections Speaker Series. Chief Joseph will share insights from his recent book, "Namwayut - We Are All One: A Pathway to Reconciliation." As the Ambassador for Reconciliation Canada and the Indian Residential School Survivors Society, Chief Joseph's reflections will inspire dialogue and learning around the ongoing work of Reconciliation.
Cultural Knowledge Sharing with Sheryl Rivers - September 16
Knowledge-keeper Sheryl Rivers from the Squamish Nation will lead a session on Indigenous cultural knowledge sharing. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with traditional teachings and gain insights into the Coast Salish traditions of using native plants as medicine and food.
Connections Speaker Series: Held by the Land with Leigh Joseph - September 23
Leigh Joseph, a member of the Squamish Nation, will bring her expertise as an ethnobotanist to MONOVA's Connections Speaker Series. She will discuss her book, "Held By The Land: A Guide to Indigenous Plants For Wellness," which explores the Coast Salish traditions of plant use for well-being. Leigh's talk promises to be an enriching exploration of Indigenous knowledge and its relevance in contemporary times.
Truth & Reconciliation Day at MONOVA - September 30
On Truth & Reconciliation Day, MONOVA opens its doors to visitors for a day of hands-on activities, fostering reflection, and meaningful dialogue. Guests of all ages can engage with exhibits and experiences that encourage a deeper understanding of Truth and Reconciliation. Admission to the Museum on September 30 is by donation.
In addition to these events, MONOVA encourages the North Shore community to participate in the #ReconciliationStories campaign throughout September. Individuals, community groups, and businesses are invited to share their stories of contributing to the work of redefining and enriching communities. This campaign aims to inspire dialogue, foster respect, and celebrate actions taken throughout the year.
For more information on the programs listed above, visit monova.ca or call 604.990.3700 (ex 8016).
