The Town of Bonnyville, Lakeland Society for Truth and Reconciliation, and numerous community Indigenous and non-Indigenous allies will have a new community healing garden set to open by September 2028.
There will be a special ceremony hosted on June 1, 2026 from 11am to 2pm for the blessing of the grounds on Jessie Lake Trail and Lakeshore Drive in Bonnyville.
The garden is a place to grow culture, connection, and community through Truth and Reconciliation.
The garden will include:
- Culturally significant plants that are native to our area and considered to be of healing value
- Underground irrigation system
- Concrete/paved circular area with a medicine wheel and turtle painted in the centre
- Walkway around the centre with paths to access the plants
- Pergola with benches for seating
- Sculpture
- Healing hands
- Display boards/plaques
- Indigenous Medicines – Culturally significant plants that are native to our area and considered to be of healing value
- Traditionally Harvested Edibles – Edible landscaping trees and plants, including an easy care vegetable garden
- Central Gathering Space – Structural designs incorporating symbolic teachings, such as the Medicine Wheel, Turtle Island, the Creation Story, 7 Grandfather Teachings, Tipi Teachings
- Ceremonial Areas – Spaces dedicated to raise tipis and hold sacred fires.
- Educational Elements – Signs and programming that promote Indigenous history, language, culture, and tradition.
Segment with Gordan Poirier, Director of Lakeland Society for Truth and Reconciliation:
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