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On March 13, 2023, the New Westminster City Council proclaimed March 2023 to 2024, a Year of Truth.
“New Westminster was built upon the destruction of the land and river connections of the original inhabitants, and their lives and livelihood. Truth must come before reconciliation, because it is only through understanding the full truth of the harm that was committed that one will truly understand those things that need to be reconciled,” - Christina Coolidge, Indigenous Relations Advisor.
These street banners act as a reminder and call to action for City staff and the community to learn about the harm, trauma, and pain that has been enacted on Indigenous peoples so that we can acknowledge where we are responsible and commit to meaningful reconciliation.
Learn more about the City's history and reconciliation journey by reading the journal, Truth Before Reconciliation: Our Journey.
ABOUT THE ARTWORK:
The banner designs incorporate the Year of Truth daffodil artwork by Christina Coolidge:
The daffodil is a symbol of truth. A Year of Truth is about looking inward and the artwork is all about reflection. The formline designs and colours reflect back on one another and the bulb acts as a mirror. It is only when we reflect upon ourselves, our past and present, and when we take inventory of our role in the harms inflicted upon Indigenous peoples, that the healing buds of truth can begin to blossom. It is only then that reconciliation can meaningfully take root.
Learn more about our Year of Truth and see the full artwork here.
Banners are installed along Royal Avenue, Sixth Street, East Columbia Street, Ewen Avenue, Twelfth Street, and Boyd Street, among other locations.
