A Day to Listen, Learn and Reflect: Vancouver Aquarium
Honours Truth and Reconciliation
The Vancouver Aquarium will mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation for the sixth year on Wednesday, September 30, with a meaningful day of Indigenous storytelling, music, food and reflection.
Guests are invited to experience a full day of special programming featuring a traditional drumming ceremony, storytelling from a Squamish Nation author, traditional Bannock prepared on-site and an opportunity to hear directly from a residential school survivor.
“This day provides a meaningful opportunity for guests to learn from and connect with local Indigenous storytellers, artists and Knowledge Keepers,” said Danika Strecko, Senior Manager of Education at the Vancouver Aquarium. “Through storytelling, music, food and shared experiences, we hope this programming encourages reflection, learning and a deeper understanding of Indigenous histories, cultures and perspectives.”
The following program will take place at the Vancouver Aquarium on September 30:
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10:30 a.m. — Welcome Ceremony: Squamish Nation Hereditary Chief, trained museum curator and educator Janice George will be bringing a land acknowledgement to begin the day. Tsatsu Staqayu, The Coastal Wolfpack, will open the day with a powerful drumming ceremony, followed by a moment of silence for reflection.
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11:30 a.m. — Storytelling & Craft Session: Squamish Nation author Lisa Lewis will share a children’s story in Underwater Steller’s Bay, followed by a hands-on craft activity inspired by Indigenous traditions.
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11:30 a.m. — Tastes of Tradition: Guests can enjoy traditional Indigenous Bannock prepared by Stephanie Watts outside the Courtyard Café, while supplies last.
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1:00 p.m. — Storytelling & Craft Session: Lisa Lewis will return for a second storytelling and craft session in Underwater Steller’s Bay.
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2:00 p.m. — Reflections Beneath the Waves: Squamish Nation Elder and residential school survivor Bob Baker will share his personal story and reflections in Underwater Steller’s Bay.
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Guests can learn more about the Vancouver Aquarium’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation programming on its website.
Since opening in 1956, the Vancouver Aquarium has connected over 50 million people from around the world to our oceans and inspired them to address key threats. Located in Stanley Park, the Vancouver Aquarium is home to over 65,000 incredible animals. The Vancouver Aquarium is a fully accredited member of Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums (AMMPA), Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (CAZA), and is Humane Conservation Certified by American Humane.
