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In 2021, after the discovery of more than 200 potential unmarked graves at the Kamloops Residential School, Werklund Centre President & CEO Alex Sarian was invited by Treaty 7 Elders to a "coming home" ceremony. This profound experience marked the beginning of Werklund Centre's organizational journey toward Indigenous Truth and Reconciliation.
As Western Canada's largest cultural centre—and soon the country’s largest performing arts campus—we recognize our responsibility to lead by example. Reconciliation requires acknowledging the truths of our shared history, learning from Indigenous communities, and transforming how we operate, paralleling the Western (written) and Indigenous (oral) knowledge systems.
Guided by Elders Reg (Aawagasenna / Deer Chief) and Rose (Aqweenniimakii / Pipe Woman) Crowshoe, we’ve built relationships with Indigenous Elders and community members, supported residential school survivors in their healing, and committed to long-term, meaningful change.
OUR GUIDING PRINCIPLES
Validated by an Elder Advisory Circle, our work is guided by:
Ethical Space
A place where Indigenous and Western knowledge systems can co-exist in mutual respect. Both oral and written traditions are honored equally.
Sanctified Kindness
A principle of compassion, and gentleness to all living things that establishes a safe space for open conversation, creating the opportunity for learning and understanding.
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Making Relatives
A worldview that all things in creation are related and is understood and practiced through the cultural principles of Discipline, Responsibility, Respect, and Accountability.
Elders Story Project
In partnership with the Elders Knowledge Circle Society (EKCS) and their Western allies, we continue to support the Elders Story Project in their efforts to heal from the traumas of residential schools and to share their knowledge with Indigenous youth and settlers.
Reconciliation Strategy
Every day we take steps to action the recommendations outlined in the strategic plan, engaging and involving our staff, board, and resident companies.
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Werklund Centre Transformation
Indigenous architect Wanda Dalla Costa and the Tawaw Architecture Collective helped design our new space with cultural elements like a symbolic tipi-inspired skylight and quill-inspired wall coverings. A ceremonial land blessing by Elders Reg and Rose Crowshoe and Elders Wallace and Florence Alexson was held in April 2024 to kick off the groundbreaking of our construction.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
We made NDTR a statutory holiday for staff beginning in 2024. However, on that day, Werklund Centre hosts free events, including the Elders Story Project, Indigenous led artistic productions, an Indigenous-curated Makers Market, and visual art tours featuring the work of Indigenous artists from across Treaty 7 and beyond.
Aboriginal Awareness Week
Since 2022, we’ve supported this annual celebration by volunteering and helping facilitate the Opening Ceremonies.
ReconciliACTION & Advisory Circle
Launched in early 2024, our ReconciliACTION Committee facilitates staff training and cultural immersion opportunities. We’re also forming an Indigenous Advisory Circle, with Elders Karli Crowshoe and Darryl Brass Jr. as founding members and guidance from Elders Reg and Rose Crowshoe.
Staff Learning
In spring 2025, staff and board members participated in the Kairos Blanket Exercise, deepening understanding of colonial impacts. Staff also regularly attend Pow Wows, Ceremonies, and other cultural events as part of ongoing learning.