The day will see various groups, including the California Indian Heritage Foundation and several tribes, hosting events aimed at shedding light on the plight of missing Indigenous individuals. The Pit River Tribe will hold its 2nd Annual MMIP Prayer Walk, while other tribes like Feather River and Yurok will also organize events dedicated to this cause.

This year, the Yurok Tribe’s event runs from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m., providing a platform for community members to come together in solidarity. Similarly, the Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation will conduct their MMIP Awareness Walk from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.. Such gatherings are crucial—community events like these foster dialogue and promote understanding of Indigenous rights.

On May 6, Sacramento will host a press conference and candlelight vigil, both significant for amplifying voices that often go unheard. Yet, despite these efforts, many families still face distrust in law enforcement regarding MMIP cases. Kelly Hunt’s case is a poignant example of this systemic issue.

As awareness campaigns grow, so does the hope for justice. “Progress has been made in addressing the crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women,” Murkowski noted, “but there is much…” left to accomplish. The road ahead is long, but each event on May 5 serves as a reminder that community unity can spark change.

The post MMIW Awareness Day: A Call for Justice appeared first on News Canada.

What does Easter mean in a time of uncertainty? As we approach April 4, 2026, this question resonates deeply, especially as Léon XIV prepares to celebrate Easter for the first time, overshadowed by the specter of war. This year’s festivities are not just about tradition; they reflect a community’s resilience and commitment to coming together during challenging times.

In various locations such as Chambly, Granby, Tremblant, and Gatineau, Easter activities are designed to engage families and uplift spirits. The Ferme Guyon, for instance, will host an Easter egg hunt for just $2.50 per child, alongside a petting farm experience priced at $11.50 for those aged 16 and older. This venue will also feature a stunning display of 500 butterflies, including morphos, in its papillonnerie, offering a visual treat for attendees.

Tremblant is set to add to the festive atmosphere by distributing chocolates to children and organizing free activities on Easter Sunday. With music by DJ Bubu and face painting for kids, the event aims to create a joyful environment for families. Such initiatives are crucial, especially when many are seeking solace and connection amidst the backdrop of ongoing global tensions.

Meanwhile, the Verger champêtre will welcome visitors to see newborn animals, charging $12 for those aged 12 and older and $35 for family entry. This farm experience not only provides entertainment but also serves as a reminder of the renewal that Easter symbolizes, making it a fitting backdrop for family gatherings.

In a poignant twist, Les Petits Frères de Gatineau will organize a community Easter dinner for elderly individuals, aiming to reduce isolation among seniors. Lise Bertrand, 86, who will participate in the dinner, poignantly remarked, “Quand tu es vieille, tu es vieille, et la famille n’est plus ce qu’elle était.” This highlights the importance of community support in maintaining connections for those who may feel forgotten.

The dinner will serve poultry, rice, and vegetables, catering to around 20 elderly participants. Nathalie Robert, involved in the organization, noted, “Les gens sont tellement contents de sortir, surtout dans le cadre des grands évènements comme Pâques et Noël.” This sentiment underscores the vital role such events play in fostering a sense of belonging and joy.

As we look ahead to Easter 2026, it is clear that while the celebrations may be tinged with the realities of the world, they also offer a space for joy, connection, and renewal. Leyla Attigue, a volunteer, expressed a desire to break the cycle of isolation, stating, “Je veux briser un peu ce cycle infernal-là que je trouve inhumain.” Such initiatives are essential in ensuring that the spirit of Easter is felt by all, particularly those who are most vulnerable.

As the date approaches, the community’s efforts to celebrate Easter reflect a broader narrative of resilience and hope. While the challenges of the present loom large, the commitment to fostering connections and joy remains steadfast. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of participation and activities, but the groundwork laid by these organizations promises a meaningful celebration.

The post Pâques: Easter Celebrations: A New Beginning Amidst Challenges appeared first on News Canada.

Metrotown, a cornerstone of Burnaby’s retail landscape, has undergone significant changes since its opening in 1986. Over the years, it has seen the closure of iconic establishments such as the Rainforest Cafe in 2001 and Playdium in 2005. These shifts reflect broader trends in consumer behavior and retail dynamics, which have increasingly impacted traditional shopping venues.

As Metrotown approaches its 40th anniversary, set to be celebrated from April 13 to June 14, 2026, the mall is preparing a series of immersive exhibits and community events. Amanda Chung, a spokesperson for Metropolis at Metrotown, remarked, “Reaching 40 years is an incredible milestone for any business,” highlighting the significance of this occasion.

However, the celebrations come at a time of transition, marked by the recent closure of American Cheesesteak Co, which operated at Metrotown for a decade before shutting its doors on March 25, 2026. The company stated, “Saying goodbye is never easy, but this is not the end,” suggesting a potential for future endeavors or relocations.

The anniversary festivities will include a flower market, DIY charm accessories, and a DJ dance party scheduled for April 25, 2026, with a second dance party to conclude the celebrations on June 14, 2026. For every spend-and-get reward redeemed during this period, Metropolis will donate $5 to Burnaby Neighbourhood House’s Food Hubs programs, up to a total of $5,000, reinforcing its commitment to community support.

In addition to these events, a TransLink merchandise pop-up is planned between May 30 and June 6, 2026, further engaging the community and enhancing the celebratory atmosphere. The mall will also showcase a collection of throwback moments and installations, inviting visitors to reflect on their memories associated with Metrotown.

Despite the festive spirit, the closure of American Cheesesteak Co raises questions about the future of retail at Metrotown. Observers note that the shopping landscape is evolving, and the mall must adapt to retain its relevance in a competitive market.

As the anniversary approaches, many are left to ponder their favorite Metrotown stores and memories. The question remains: will the upcoming celebrations be enough to invigorate the mall and attract new visitors, or will it face further challenges in the years to come?

For decades, families and friends have come to Metrotown to shop, celebrate, and spend time together, and the upcoming events aim to honor that legacy while also addressing the realities of a changing retail environment.

As the community gears up for the anniversary, it will be crucial to see how Metrotown navigates these challenges and what steps it will take to ensure its continued success.

The post Metrotown Celebrates 40 Years Amid Store Closures and Community Events appeared first on News Canada.