Agassiz Elementary Secondary School students took to the streets of Agassiz during their walk to observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Friday, Sept. 27.
Seabird Island (Sq'éwqel) Elder Mike Joe, who spoke at an assembly on Friday morning, said he was pleased to see how many young people were getting involved in the day's observance.
"All children matter," he told the students. "Each one of you who is out there, you matter. You are good people. You do have good hearts. Whatever you do in life, go with your heart. Take the time to love yourself for who you are."
Kent's Deputy Mayor Susan Spaeti also said a few words on behalf of the district. She said she believes the most important part of Truth and Reconciliation is listening to the truths to those who choose to share them.
"Building relationships with our neighbouring communities is essential to me," Spaeti added. "I believe that listening to each other and hearing their stories and their truths is the most important thing that you can do, to step forward as a witness to the hard truth and accept responsibility to learn and change."
She highlighted the ways local communities work with First Nations communities in the area, including agreements for utilities and fire protection as well as collaborative efforts using the Lets'emot Community to Community Forum for the past 15 years.
'Every one of us can affect change, whether that's sharing resources or reading a book by an Indigenous author," Spaeti said. "Sitting together with open hearts and open minds allows you to listen and find your place in the ongoing discussion dedicated to Truth and Reconciliation."
