Kâkesimokamik in Cree means “healing garden”. There is a rich symbolism of nature held safe within the garden. This is a spiritual place that brings together the earth, sky, water and air.
August 9, 2018 celebrates the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, which came into being by the General Assembly of the United Nations resolution 49/214 of 23 December 1994. This marked the beginning of the first International Decade of the World’s Indigenous People proclaimed for the decade, 1995 to 2004. A Second International Decade occurred from 2005 – 2015, with the theme of “A Decade for Action and Dignity.”
This year, I celebrated International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples by visiting “The Healing Garden” in St Albert, Alberta.
The Healing Garden was officially opened on Friday, September 15, 2017. It is a place of peace and comfort, a testament to St. Albert’s commitment to healing and reconciliation.
Situated along the scenic Red Willow Trail across from St. Albert Place, The Healing Garden is “to be a place of truth and reconciliation, a visible sign of our community’s commitment to walk in right relations with First Nation, Métis and Inuit peoples, and with all Nations.”
May we continue to celebrate inclusivity and diversity, experiencing the profound healing power of reconciliation in our lives and within our communities.
