Free admission for Indigenous people proposed for 2 popular Vancouver attractions
The Vancouver Park Board will consider a proposal to give Indigenous people free admission to two popular attractions in the city.
A staff report that will be voted on next Monday suggests launching the program at VanDusen Botanical Gardens and the Bloedel Conservatory on June 21 to coincide with National Indigenous Peoples Day.
'For the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation, Truth and Reconciliation is more than a ceremonial acknowledgement of these territories,' the report says.
'Providing free access to Indigenous peoples aligns with the park board's reconciliation mission of decolonization.'
The offer of complimentary entry will be made to 'any individual who self-identifies as Indigenous, First Nations, Metis or Inuit when they visit,' according to the report, which notes the policy will only apply during 'regular daytime hours' and not for special events.
Admission to the garden ranges from $5.35 to $15.05 depending on the time of year and the age of the visitor. For the conservatory, prices range from $4.50 to $9, depending on age. Kids under four don't have to pay for entry at either place.
Similar access policies is already in place at facilities that aren't under the park board's jurisdiction including Science World and the Museum of Anthropology.
The proposal also says the park board will track the number of people admitted for free on these grounds and that there is expected to be 'minimal.'
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History, artistry, and greenery on display at Rideau Hall this summer
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Tour the grounds and the Visitor Centre The grounds of Rideau Hall are open from 8 a.m. until one hour before sunset, year-round. The Visitor Centre is open from 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., from now until September 1. Members of the public can stroll through the grounds of Rideau Hall at their leisure and explore the paths through the groves and gardens of this urban oasis. Visitors can begin their exploration at the Visitor Centre to learn more about the role and responsibilities of the governor general, and the history of Rideau Hall. The Visitor Centre also features picnic tables, a play structure and public washrooms. Heart Garden at Rideau Hall Daily as of June 21, on the Rideau Hall grounds The heart garden at Rideau Hall remembers the First Nations, Inuit and Métis children who died in the Canadian residential school system, and those who survived. The plants featured in the garden were carefully chosen for their deep connection to the land and Indigenous peoples. 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Annual Inspection of the Ceremonial Guard June 27 at 10 a.m., on the Rideau Hall forecourt (weather dependent) This annual tradition highlights polish, precision and pageantry as the Governor General and Commander-in-Chief conducts the annual Inspection of the Ceremonial Guard. The event will include a military parade, an inspection of the guard and the band, and a Viceregal Salute to Her Excellency. Storytime at Rideau Hall June 27, 10:30 a.m. June 28 and August 2, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Guest readers, including local authors, Rideau Hall guides, and United for Literacy volunteers, will bring favourite Canadian stories to life! Visitors are welcome to join us in the Reading Tent to read books and participate in fun hands-on activities. This outdoor family activity is hosted in collaboration with United for Literacy, Canada's oldest not for profit literacy organization. A special reading event with the Governor General will be held on June 27, at 10:30 a.m., on the grounds of Rideau Hall. Ottawa Chamberfest at Rideau Hall July 26 and 27 Once again, Ottawa Chamberfest returns to Rideau Hall for some relaxing afternoon performances, held in the shade of the trees of the Royal Grove. Bring your own blanket or chairs and enjoy an interlude of live music. Central Band of the Canadian Armed Forces: July 26, 2:00 and 3:30 p.m. Ensembles from the Central Band of the Canadian Armed Forces will play classical favourites with a focus on brass and woodwinds. Despax Duo: July 27, 2:00 and 3:30 p.m. Violinist Cendrine Despax and cellist Valérie Despax come together for two performances of eclectic repertoire for violin and cello, ranging from Taylor Swift to Mozart. National Day for Truth and Reconciliation September 28 and September 30 In the lead-up to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Rideau Hall will hold a special Doors Open event on September 28, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Programming will encourage the public to reflect upon the 10 years that have passed since the release of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's final report and will include interactive art activities. On September 30, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Rideau Hall will host a Sacred Fire for the community, led by a local fire keeper. Guided tours on that day will be specifically focused on reconciliation. 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