In the summer of 1993. a group of youth traveled across Canada on a bus called Peace Bus ’93. They came from diverse backgrounds and their mission was to foster friendship between the many different peoples that make up our great country. Squamish was a stop along the way where they were hosted by the Squamish Nation and spent one night bunking down at the old Totem Hall. Gwen Harry and Donna Billy put out a call to local church and religious groups to help with food and hospitality. The local Sikh and Baha’i Communities responded and something wonderful was set in motion. Everyone had such a good time, sharing food, stories and music. Friendships were forged and all decided that this coming together to share and celebrate each other’s diversity must continue. Multicultural Day at Totem Hall was born. Over the years other faith groups have joined in the celebrations allowing for a more diverse expression of faith and culture but one thing remains constant – a time to share and celebrate together.

Please join us this year on Saturday February 11, at Totem Hall for an afternoon of music, dance and cultural activities.

Learn-share-participate!

North American coordinator, Tahil Sharma visited Squamish on October 13th.

The visit, hosted by Squamish Multifaith Association included visits to St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Squamish United Church, Sikh Temple and St. John the Divine Anglican Church. A consultation with board and guests followed, with 14 people in attendance. The meeting was opened with a slide presentation giving an overview of the work of Squamish Multifaith Association. Tahil then talked about the work of URI and his role as coordinator to help support the work of collaborating circles. Squamish Multifaith Association joined the URI network in 2019. Issues of climate change and connecting with youth were areas where Tahil’s assistance with connecting and networking with other collaborating circles was suggested for followup.