September 2026 Presentations: IRSSS + Vancouver Public Library
Live & Virtual Sessions September 10 - 29, 2026
The Indian Residential School Survivors Society is pleased to host four free presentations in partnership with the Vancouver Public Library (VPL). Attendees will learn about the effects of colonialism as well as the ongoing challenges faced by Survivors and their descendants in this special series. For more information and to register, please visit the VPL website via links provided below.
A Note from IRSSS on Residential School Denialism
Please note that these presentations are intended to honour Survivors, their families, and the documented history and ongoing impacts of the Indian Residential School system. We ask all participants to engage respectfully and in good faith. Residential School denialism, racism, or behaviour that intentionally disrupts the purpose of these sessions is not consistent with the values of this series. Facilitators may redirect conversations where appropriate; however, participants may be asked to leave the in-person or virtual session, or the session may be concluded if necessary, in order to maintain a safe and respectful learning environment.
Coming Full Circle: History and Impacts of Residential School
Thurs, Sept 10 | 2:00 - 3:30 PM
Central Library, 250 W. Georgia St.
Montalbano Family Theatre, Level 8
Free admission
Thurs, Sept 24 | 6:00 - 7:30 PM
Online Event
Free admission
These workshops offer an honest and compassionate exploration of the history and lasting impacts of residential schools in Canada.
Together, we will review why Indigenous children were forcibly taken into these institutions, explore the documented history of what happened to survivors and to those who never made it home, and reflect on the profound intergenerational effects that continue to shape Indigenous communities today.
Participants will also examine their own responsibilities in reconciliation, learning how to move forward with awareness, empathy, and meaningful action.
Reclaiming our Past Present and Future: Understanding Intergenerational Trauma and Healing
Thurs, Sept 17 | 6:00 - 7:30 PM
Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St.
Montalbano Family Theatre, Level 8
Free admission
Tues, Sept 29 | 10:00 - 11:30 AM
Online Event
Free admission
These workshops focus on defining intergenerational trauma and understanding how it has been shaped by colonial adversities, including the residential school system that Indigenous people were forced into.
We explore how these experiences continue to affect survivors and their families across generations and highlight the movement toward intergenerational healing - centring on resiliency, reconnection to traditional practices, and the importance of restoring cultural values in order to reclaim the past, present, and future.
Sept 2026 Workshops & Presentations at Full Capacity
Due to the incredible response from communities across the province, our Community Engagement Team’s presentation calendar is now fully booked.
We encourage you to consider attending a joint IRSSS + VPL presentation (information above) or book ahead with us for fall, winter, or the new year.
Support Beyond September
At IRSSS, we believe reconciliation extends far beyond September 30th. For Survivors, their families, and all of the communities that we serve, healing is a lifelong journey.
We invite you to consider making a donation; your support helps ensure Survivors, their families, and communities continue to have access to trauma-informed, culturally safe services throughout the year. Together, we can continue to provide a safe space for continued hope, healing, and empowerment.
Looking for other ways to show your support? Explore ways of building awareness and action by hosting a fundraiser or exploring other ways to give.