The Lakeland Society for Truth and Reconciliation is inviting the public to take part in a Sacred Blessing of the Grounds ceremony on Monday, June 1 as work begins on a new Community Healing Garden in Bonnyville.

The event will run from approximately 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. along the Jessie Lake Trail between 49 Avenue and 54-55 Street, at the future site of the healing garden. Organizers say the ceremony is intended to bless the land “with good intentions” before construction begins and to mark the beginning of National Indigenous History Month.

The project is being developed in partnership with the Town of Bonnyville and is focused on healing, reflection and reconciliation within the community.

According to the Lakeland Society for Truth and Reconciliation, the day will begin earlier in the morning with the raising and blessing of a tipi and the lighting of a sacred fire. A pipe ceremony for dignitaries and leadership is scheduled for 10 a.m., followed by a barbecue lunch at noon.

Additional activities throughout the day include:

• Words from dignitaries, Elders and Knowledge Keepers
• A grand entry and youth dancers blessing the grounds
• Honouring of the sacred fire through prayer and traditional offerings
• A talking circle inside the tipi with an Elder or Knowledge Keeper

Organizers say the event is open to everyone in the Lakeland region and is free to attend.

The society is also seeking community support through donations, volunteers and food or beverage contributions to help cover event expenses including honorariums and meals. Businesses and supporters who contribute will be recognized at the event, online and through promotional materials.

To help raise awareness and funds for the project, the group has also set up a table at the Bonnyville Tuesday Farmers Market throughout the month of May. The table features Indigenous merchandise and homemade goods including beadwork, bannock, baked items and canned foods.

Donations can be made by cheque payable to the Lakeland Society for Truth and Reconciliation or by e-transfer to LakelandTruthandReconciliation@gmail.com.

For more information, community members can contact Corita Vachon at 780-826-1061.