Stetís Ímexstowx Gathering - Walk Beside Us

09/11/2026

Cultural Awareness Activity
Presented by Abbotsford Fire Rescue Service

Time: 11am – 3pm
Location: Beside the Clearbrook Library

Families are to participate in a cultural awareness colouring activity that celebrates Indigenous cultures and helps share the values, traditions, and teachings embraced by First Nations communities. This hands-on experience offers a fun and educational opportunity for visitors of all ages.

Meet the firefighters of Abbotsford Fire Rescue Service and get an up-close look at the specialized apparatus and equipment used to respond to fire emergencies. Explore the fire truck, learn about the tools firefighters rely on to keep our community safe, and discover what it takes to respond in emergency situations.

Join us as we come together to build a deeper awareness of our roles in the path to Reconciliation on September 30th, 2026 for the second annual Stetís ímexstowx (Walk Beside Us) Gathering at Thunderbird Square in Selxwitchel (Abbotsford).

https://stetisimexstowx.ca/our-time-together/

09/10/2026

Youth Sharing Their Learning
Presented by Abbotsford School District

Time: All day
Location: Matsqui Centennial Auditorium Lobby

Students from the Abbotsford School District are sharing their powerful learning journeys through a series of meaningful projects. These initiatives explore the true history of the land and advocate for a respectful, inclusive path forward. Rooted in truth and reconciliation, the students’ work fosters greater understanding, awareness, and community connection. We appreciate the youth for leading a positive path forward.

Join us as we come together to build a deeper awareness of our roles in the path to Reconciliation on September 30th, 2026 for the second annual Stetís ímexstowx (Walk Beside Us) Gathering at Thunderbird Square in Selxwitchel (Abbotsford).

https://stetisimexstowx.ca/our-time-together/

09/10/2026

FAMILY ACTIVITIES AND LEARNING
Presented by FVRL - Clearbrook Library

Time: 11am - 3pm
Location: Clearbrook Library

Visit the Clearbrook Library to engage in activities and discover FVRL and other community resources that help us “walk together” with Indigenous peoples. Join us to connect with the special meaning of the National Day of Truth & Reconciliation.

Join us as we come together to build a deeper awareness of our roles in the path to Reconciliation on September 30th, 2026 for the second annual Stetís ímexstowx (Walk Beside Us) Gathering at Thunderbird Square in Selxwitchel (Abbotsford).

https://stetisimexstowx.ca/our-time-together/

09/09/2026

FLORAL RECONCILIATION WALL
Presented by City of Abbotsford with Lexi Richards

Time: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Location: Thunderbird Square

Join artist Lexi Richards for an interactive art-making activity. Participants are invited to place flowers within a temporary artwork, contributing to a project that serves as a visual commitment to Truth and Reconciliation.

Join us as we come together to build a deeper awareness of our roles in the path to Reconciliation on September 30th, 2026 for the second annual Stetís ímexstowx (Walk Beside Us) Gathering at Thunderbird Square in Selxwitchel (Abbotsford).

09/09/2026

FLORAL RECONCILIATION WALL
Presented by City of Abbotsford - The Hub Of The Fraser Valley with Lexi Richards

Time: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Location: Thunderbird Square

Join artist Lexi Richards for an interactive art-making activity. Participants are invited to place flowers within a temporary artwork, contributing to a project that serves as a visual commitment to Truth and Reconciliation.

Join us as we come together to build a deeper awareness of our roles in the path to Reconciliation on September 30th, 2026 for the second annual Stetís ímexstowx (Walk Beside Us) Gathering at Thunderbird Square in Selxwitchel (Abbotsford).

https://stetisimexstowx.ca/our-time-together/

06/05/2026

SAVE THE DATE for the fourth annual Stetís ímexstowx Gathering on September 30th, 2026! 🧡

Stetís ímexstowx means “walk beside us” in the beautiful Halq’eméylem language.

Our local civic organizations have united around Thunderbird Square with a common goal – to create a space for learning and understanding. We’re walking together to share learning opportunities for the public about Truth and Reconciliation, as well as the history of Residential Schools.

Join us on this journey as we come together to build a deeper awareness of our roles in the path to Reconciliation.

📆: September 30th, 2026

⏰: 10am-3:30pm

📍: Thunderbird Memorial Square (323388 Veterans Way, Abbotsford)

Save the date, September 30th, and stay tuned for more details!
https://stetisimexstowx.ca/

(Name, Stetís ímexstowx “walk beside us”, given by Leanne Joe)

05/14/2026

Check out a showing of the award-winning short documentary, "The Rewilders" and a panel discussion, which includes Eddie Gardner, Sqwá First Nation Elder, on Sunday, May 31st at the Chilliwack Cultural Centre. Doors open at 2pm. Tickets are $10 each.

This film includes the transformation of Gill Bar to St’óqweleqw, a critical habitat for salmon, sturgeon and wildlife. This was Pelólxw Tribe led using the best of Indigenous and western science, and an intergenerational force.

Full details here:

The Rewilders is a visually spectacular short documentary that follows pioneering conservationists on three continents, working to rewild iconic species like jaguar, elephant, bison and salmon.

04/16/2026

Upcoming series, "Discussing Residential Schools: Local Perspectives", from our friends at UFV PARC and Stó:lō Tourism is a great opportunity to listen and learn.

This series is a part of the Stó:lō Research and Resource Management Centre's Cultural Experience Series Events.

Featuring Stó:lō Grand Chief Dr. Clarence Pennier, Dr. Dave Schaepe (SRRMC), and Dr. Keith Thor Carlson (UFV), alongside additional researchers from the SRRMC.

Mission:
Wednesday, April 22, 6:00-8:00 pm
Xá:ytem Interpretive Longhouse,
35087 Lougheed Hwy. - Mission B.C.

Hope:
September 9th 6:00-8:00 pm
Spirit of Hope Secondary School
444 Stuart Street - Common’s Room

Chilliwack:
November 18, 6:00-8:00 pm at the Gathering Space,
UFV Chilliwack Campus
45190 Caen Ave, Building A - Chilliwack

Come engage in candid and culturally grounded discussions facilitated by Wi******er Victor. The evenings are stand alone sessions that will start with a short presentation before the floor is opened for thoughtful questions and dialogue. No registration required, information at https://www.ufv.ca/peace-and-reconciliation/events/

You are invited. Cultural Experience Series Events: Mission - April 22nd, Hope September 9th and Chilliwack November 18th. Discussing Residential Schools: Local Perspectives. Everyone welcome.

04/14/2026

Máthxwi First Nation Chief Alice McKay and Semá:th First Nation Chief Dalton Silver speak on the topic of Truth & Reconciliation.

🎥: .films via