We acknowledge and respect the Lək̓ʷəŋən (Songhees and Esquimalt) Peoples on whose territory Broad View United resides, and the Lək̓ʷəŋən and W̱SÁNEĆ Peoples whose historical relationships with the land continue to this day.
On March 13, 2024, BVU gathered for the unveiling of the Reconciliation Artwork created by Indigenous artist Rande Cook. Members of his extended family and elders joined folks from BVU as we listened to Rande speak about the process, the vision of the artwork, and words from elders/family members about their past and their hopes for the future. The artwork is entitled FOR THE LOVE OF CHILDREN.
These are Rande’s words:
In this piece, I delve into the profound and often painful histories that shadow over Canada’s Indigenous peoples, drawing upon the somber narratives of residential schools, the forced relocations to reserves, and the aggressive extraction of natural resources from lands that have been home to these communities for millennia.
Through my work, I aim not only to confront and acknowledge these injustices but also to illuminate the enduring strength, resilience, and unity of Indigenous peoples as they navigate the process of healing and reconciliation.
The art serves as a bridge between the past’s dark chapters and the hopeful, determined stride towards a future where such histories are not repeated but remembered as lessons for preserving dignity, rights, and safe environments for all Indigenous communities. It is with a deep sense of responsibility andreverence that I present this piece, hoping to contribute to the ongoing dialogue around reconciliation, healing, and the collective effort in paving a way towards a just and equitable future for the coming generations.
As viewers engage with the artwork, I invite them to reflect on the themes of resilience, unity, and healing, recognizing the significance of these processes not only for Indigenous communities but for society as a whole. It is through understanding, empathy, and shared commitments to justice that we can all contribute to the healing journey, making strides together towards creating a future that upholds the dignity and safety of every individual.
We are so grateful for this opportunity to share the artwork The Children We Love. It welcomes everyone who visits our place and is installed on the wall above the staircase that bridges the main entrance, the Commons (upstairs), and the Hub (downstairs).
At Broad View United (BVU), we are committed to the ongoing work of integrating the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) Calls to Action. This means going deeper than land acknowledgements and working to decolonize our way of being as institutions and as individuals.
As part of our ongoing commitment at BVU, we commissioned the Reconciliation Artwork (FOR THE LOVE OF CHILDREN) by Rande Cook to be placed in a central area of our newly renovated space so that it would stand as a reminder and a commitment to the Calls of the TRC every time we walk past it.
Each year on National Truth and Reconciliation Day, there will be a short vigil to begin the day, before engaging with the many opportunities offered by Indigenous communities and leaders for people from every walk of life.
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BVU has weekly sewing days for creating quilts for survivors. Learn More
To be worn on National Reconciliation Day, National Indigenous Day, Orange Shirt Day, and any other occasion where standing in solidarity with Indigenous folks and issues is called for. These are available at the BVU Thrift Store (link), and all proceeds go to the Indigenous artists and collectives who create these shirts.
Please find more programs and learning events that BVU shares to deepen our understanding and to take justice actions and responses.
FIND MORE
There are many options. Here are a few by some local BC authors:
There is also a section for Indigenous books available in the BVU lending library.
https://vnfc.ca/library/
This link takes you to the Library at the Victoria Native Friendship Center, where you can find a variety of Indigenous books and sets of books for a book club. For one dollar a year, you have access to a wide range of Indigenous reading materials. You can also explore this website to see how to volunteer or enjoy lunch on a Friday. If you would like a guide or companion for the lunch, check with the church office. Keep an eye on their calendar for Family Fun Days, which are fabulous for children— such as Family Day in February and a Halloween Fun Day.
Some big screen movies also include:
● Indian Horse
● The Grizzlies
● Bones of Crows
● Beans
● Monkey Beach
