Truth and Reconciliation Artwork on SkyTrain Unveiled

In honour of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Orange Shirt Day), TransLink unveiled new artwork designed by Indigenous artist Shonta Campbell (Kishiqweb). Two Expo Line SkyTrain cars are wrapped with a powerful design, inspired by stories passed down from the artist’s grandfather, telling the tale of a canoe that saved his life and returned him to his homelands.

Truth and Reconciliation Artwork on SkyTrain Unveiled

“The intent behind my artwork is to honour the strength and love that my community embodies,” says Shonta Campbell (Kishiqweb), a Heiltsuk, Anishinaabe, and Wuikinuxv artist. “Intergenerational trauma is an undeniable experience for Indigenous Peoples, but I want to highlight our stories of perseverance, grounded in love for one another, and our connection to our homelands.”

The SkyTrain cars will be in service across the Expo Line starting today until next spring. An artist biography and statement will be featured inside each of the two decorated SkyTrain cars.

Orange Shirt Available in TransLink Store

In honour of Orange Shirt Day, limited-edition orange shirts featuring artwork by Taltan Tlingit Nation, Wolf Clan artist Rose Tashoots are available through the TransLink Store. 100% of TransLink proceeds from the limited-edition shirt sale will go to the Orange Shirt Day Society.

The orange heart on the shirt represents the intergenerational trauma of residential schools experienced by Indigenous children and their families. The colour black symbolizes mourning for the children who could not carry on and tell their stories, while white signifies healing and new beginnings for those who survived and lived on to tell their tales.

“I hope to be an inspiration for people back home,” says artist and residential school survivor Rose Tashoots. “When people wear this shirt, I want them to engage in positive thinking, especially if they are residential school survivors. Wear it with pride. It supports the residential school survivors.”

Transit Service on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Community gatherings, educational workshops, and Indigenous exhibitions will be displayed throughout Metro Vancouver on September 30th, with many events are accessible by transit.

• Holiday fares will be in effect. Customers will only need a 1-Zone fare to travel across all zones.
• Bus, SkyTrain, and SeaBus will operate on a Sunday/holiday schedule.
• West Coast Express will not be operating.
• The TransLink Customer Service Centre, Access Transit Customer Care Office, and Lost Property Office will be closed.

Service returns to regular weekday schedules for all modes on Tuesday, October 1st. Regular fares will be in effect.

Related: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation – Vancouver Events 2024