Truth and Reconciliation at the Museum
Ahead of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Orange Shirt Day) on September 30, the museum will host a special commemorative program on Saturday, September 20.
Join us for family-friendly, trilingual storytelling in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin featuring the children’s book When We Were Alone written by David A. Robertson (Norway House Cree Nation, Winnipeg) and illustrated by Julie Flett (Cree/Métis, Vancouver).
Following story time, take part in a reflection activity and help create a collaborative art display. Together, we’ll explore the intergenerational impacts of residential schools, the significance of honouring heritage and belonging, and our collective responsibility in advancing truth and reconciliation.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, September 20, 2025
Location: Chinese Canadian Museum (51 E Pender St.)
Time & Schedule:
11 - 11:30 A.M. - Trilingual storytime
11:30 A.M - 4 P.M. - Drop-in collaborative craft activityCost: Included with admission
RSVP: Registration link here
This event will be conducted in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin.
About When We Were Alone:
When a young girl helps tend to her grandmother’s garden, she begins to notice things that make her curious. Why does her grandmother have long, braided hair and beautifully coloured clothing? Why does she speak another language and spend so much time with her family? As she asks her grandmother about these things, she is told about life in a residential school a long time ago, where all of these things were taken away. When We Were Alone is a story about a difficult time in history, and, ultimately, one of empowerment and strength.
Illustration by Julie Flett.
Upcoming Family-Friendly Programs
Looking for more family fun at the museum? Save the date for our upcoming Chinese Canadian Connects family programs – happening once a month on Saturdays from 11 A.M. – 3 P.M. Stay tuned for details!
October 4 & 5
November 22
December 20