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TRC Calls to Action inspire new piece of Indigenous art
June 22, 2022 - 9:15 am
- In front of Aden Bowman Collegiate (1904 Clarence Ave S)
- 12th Street and Broadway Avenue
- E.D. Feehan on the north side of Rusholme Road, west of Avenue M
To coincide with Indigenous History Month and Indigenous Peoples Day, Saskatoon Transit has unveiled its fourth bus shelter displaying Indigenous artwork. These shelters reaffirm Saskatoon Transit’s commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action #79.
This year’s shelter was created through a collaboration between the Saskatoon Survivors Circle and Indigenous artist, Justine "Tini" Stilborn. Stilborn worked to capture the reflections of the Survivors using visual art. She sought to tell the story of their past including the atrocities of residential schools, the Sixties Scoop, and those resulting from the child welfare and foster care system. But the artwork is also intended to capture the Survivors’ hopes for the future.
Stilborn created her designs using Procreate and Adobe Illustrator which were then cut out of metal sheets by MetalShapes for installation at 885 Confederation Drive.
“The meetings between the Survivors and Justine were open and emotional conversations about what we wanted to communicate through this piece of art” says Survivor Frank Badger.
“We hope this will become a place and symbol of reconciliation, healing, and unity for all Indigenous people” says Survivor Barb Badger.
The artwork’s storytelling begins on the left panel, with the Sixties Scoop depicting young Indigenous children being taken from their homes and families. This panel was done in red to convey the stereotype of the red skin of Indigenous people and the bloodshed and pain experienced.
The back panels illustrate Indigenous children’s involuntary assimilation to euro-western culture shown by the cutting of their hair. These panels also show Indigenous children being removed from their homes in more contemporary times, bridged by shoes that represent the unmarked graves of residential school children. The hands at the top reflect the broken connection between Indigenous generations and the yearning to reconnect. These panels were done in orange to align with orange shirt day and the Every Child Matters movement.
The right panel is designed to elicit a sense of freedom as Indigenous people return to their cultural practices and reconnect with their ancestors. This panel is yellow to represent hope and joy.
For the first time, art was also added to the ceiling of a bus shelter. “This piece depicts the dawn of a new day where Indigenous persons can celebrate their babies again without the fear of having them taken,” says Stilborn. “There are little faces in the clouds, drawn from the ultrasounds of my two daughters.”
“Saskatoon Transit’s work with the Saskatoon Survivors Circle continues to advance reconciliation in Saskatoon,” says Mayor Charlie Clark. “The stories of the Survivors are the truth we must understand that leads us towards meaningful reconciliation. The beautiful work of art by this Indigenous artist is now a visual representation of the Survivors stories. Thank you to the Survivors Circle, to Justine, and to Saskatoon Transit for all being part of our shared journey towards reconciliation.”
“Following the location of unmarked residential school graves, Saskatoon Transit was inspired to reach out to the Saskatoon Survivors Circle,” says Tracey Davis, Acting Director of Saskatoon Transit. “Truth and reconciliation go hand in hand, and this year was our opportunity to help tell those truths through this shelter installation.”
“Art brings people together; it creates conversations, inspires and unifies our communities, and gives hope for the future,” says Melissa Cote, the City’s Director of Indigenous Initiatives. “This project is a perfect example of how art can be healing as well as an opportunity for learning.”
The other three Saskatoon Transit bus shelters displaying Indigenous artwork are located at the following locations:
Heavy Rain Update
June 21, 2022 - 9:45 am
- Avoid flooded areas altogether if possible.
- Do not remove barricades or drive into barricaded areas.
- Stay out of the water whether you are in your car or if you are on foot.
- Be mindful to avoid flooded areas on your commute to/from work or school – stay up to date with service alerts.
- If you encounter flooding on a street, take an alternate route, as deep water can damage a vehicle and cause it to stall.
- Do not remove manhole covers – it can be dangerous. Contact the City instead at 306-975-2476.
- Do not go near drainage areas in parks and follow all signage in parks that may direct you to not enter when flooding occurs – these areas can also be very hazardous in storm-flow conditions
- Emergencies: report stranded vehicles, missing or popped manholes and street or underpass flooding to the City of Saskatoon’s 24-Hour Customer Service Centre at 306-975-2476. Call 9-1-1 in an emergency.
Yesterday, Saskatoon experienced heavy rain with accumulations concentrated in the south, east and north sides of the city. Upwards of 75 millimeters were received in some spots. City crews worked throughout the evening and overnight to address flooded intersections, popped manhole covers and other flood-related issues on roadways.
Water has receded from flooded streets and most intersections were clear for today’s commute except for a limited number of areas in the south east which still have barricades in place for driver and pedestrian safety. These barricades are anticipated to be removed by the end of day.
Saskatoon Transit
Saskatoon Transit routes are running as normal but will continue to detour around barricaded areas. The terminal at Market Mall is currently inaccessible because of detours in the area, so please use other stops. Check the Transit App for up-to-date information.
Leisure Facilities
Impacted facilities have re-opened today during regular operating hours. Exceptions are: Lions Arena and Lawson Civic Centre, where the pool is open but the fitness room remains closed due to water seepage.
Water & Waste Operations
Waste collection took place as scheduled except for a small area in the Avalon area yesterday. Drivers will return for garbage collection on these streets on Wednesday. A service alert will be shared with impacted households.
Rock Your Roots Walk for Reconciliation
For the safety of all participants, workers and volunteers, the June 21 event has been cancelled. More on this here.
City Flood Protection Infrastructure
Currently, the City’s infrastructure continues to keep up with yesterday’s flood water, but we are monitoring the conditions very closely. More rain is forecasted for Saskatoon and area this week and the system will need several days to recover from Monday’s rainfall. Residents can help by not running washing machines, dishwashers or flushing toilets unless flushing is absolutely necessary.
Be Prepared & Keep Safe
When a rain event such as this occurs, there are things we can all do to keep safe:
Home Flood Protection
To reduce the risk of damage to property, residents should ensure downspouts disperse water at least two metres (six feet) away from the home foundation. Downpours like this can drop a tremendous amount of water in a relatively short period of time. All homes – even those that have never flooded before may have water seep in.
The City has information available for impacted residents on saskatoon.ca/homefloodprotection.
Dry storm ponds worked as intended such as at WW Ashley Park which was recently completed as part of the City’s Flood Control Strategy. Dry storm ponds are designed to hold water that would otherwise cause nearby flooding during intense rainfalls. The water flows from properties and roads into the dry storm pond, then slowly drains into the storm sewer.
For More Information
For up-to-date information, check back on this site or follow service alerts and the City’s social media channels.
Rock Your Roots CANCELLED due to safety concerns posed by extreme weather
June 20, 2022 - 5:45 pm
Due to safety concerns posed by flooding and the risk of lightning, the Rock Your Roots Walk for Reconciliation has been cancelled. The walk was scheduled to take place tomorrow, National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21).
The annual event is put on by Reconciliation Saskatoon, which the City of Saskatoon co-chairs along with the Office of the Treaty Commissioner. The intent is to answer the TRC Calls to Action by demonstrating a commitment to Reconciliation, honouring Residential School Survivors, and working towards an inclusive community.
Provided it’s safe to do so, the Rock Your Roots organizing committee encourages people to take their own walk of reconciliation at any time of day tomorrow – National Indigenous Peoples Day – and to post to social media using the hashtag #RockYourRoots.
The private events honouring Residential School Survivors will go ahead as planned. As of 5:00 p.m. June 20, the afternoon event hosted by the Saskatoon Indian & Métis Friendship Centre was going ahead. Check the National Indigenous Peoples Day 2022 Facebook Event Page for updates.
Heavy rain causing localized flooding, caution advised
June 20, 2022 - 3:15 pm
Saskatoon has experienced heavy rain today with the east side of the city seeing the heaviest rain accumulations so far.
Fire and water/sewer crews are responding to several calls related to flooding. Drivers are asked to immediately avoid Circle Drive between College Drive and Taylor Street and between Preston Avenue S and McEown Avenue on Louise Street. Barricades are now in place in these areas.
Residents are advised to avoid driving in these areas if possible and not to enter areas that have experienced localized flooding. Anyone encountering flooding on a street should take an alternate route, as deep water can damage a vehicle and cause it to stall. Please report emergencies such as stranded vehicles, missing manholes and street or underpass flooding to the 24 Hour Customer Service Centre at 306-975-2476.
To reduce the risk of damage to property, residents should ensure downspouts disperse water at least two metres (six feet) away from the home foundation.
Detours are in place for Saskatoon Transit routes 6, 19 and 83 - please check transit service alerts for the latest details.
Environment Canada is predicting the potential for more rain in the forecast this week.
For information about possible disruptions to City services due to potential heavy rain, including leisure services, detours, and closures, citizens are encouraged to monitor Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca or on Twitter follow @yxeservicealert.
Rain or shine, it’s time to Rock Your Roots for Indigenous Peoples Day!
June 20, 2022 - 8:15 am
The Rock Your Roots Walk for Reconciliation takes place tomorrow (June 21) on National Indigenous Peoples Day. This walk is one way to demonstrate a commitment to Reconciliation, honour Residential School Survivors, and work towards an inclusive community.
Everyone is welcome to attend and join the walk. Cultural performers from across the city have been invited to ‘rock their roots’ along the walk route by sharing a piece of their culture and showcasing Saskatoon’s incredible diversity. Walk participants are welcome to wear their cultural regalia, an EveryChildMatters shirt, or any other orange shirt.
Rock Your Roots is put on by Reconciliation Saskatoon, which the City of Saskatoon co-chairs along with the Office of the Treaty Commissioner. The event, attended by thousands in past years, was first held in 2016 with attendance growing each year. The intent is to answer the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's Calls to Action.
Rock Your Roots will go ahead, rain or shine. The walk takes place between 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. Participants should arrive for 10:00 a.m. at the start location—in Victoria Park across from Legion Branch 63 on Spadina Crescent West. A news release with more information is available here. Or visit saskatoon.ca/Indigenous.
Flip flip hurraaaay - the City’s Annual Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser is today!
June 16, 2022 - 8:30 am
Batter up and plan to attend the City of Saskatoon's Annual Civic Pancake Breakfast this morning!
Civic Pancake Breakfast Event Details:
When: Thursday, June 16, 2022
Time: Breakfast served 7:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Location: Held outside in Civic Square at 23rd Street, beside City Hall
Cost: $7 breakfast includes choice of whip, syrup or berry toppings, sausages, coffee & juice
Payment method: Cash or Debit card
As always, all proceeds from this important community fundraiser will be donated to United Way Saskatoon & Area for all the great work they do in our community. Mayor Charlie Clark, City Councillors and other celebrity pancake flippers from our community will be in attendance! Bring your friends and come downtown this morning!
We have an exciting lineup today including Saskatoon Police Service vehicle displays, an entertainment stage with various ethnic dancers including a tribute to Ukraine, Métis fiddlers, musicians, furry mascots, the always anticipated and fun-to-watch team relay race (8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.), public engagement booth, and more!
New this year: You can help pay it forward through the Act of Kindness Board!
Since we've not had this important fundraiser in a couple of years, we're hoping we can all help pay it forward with an extra push for kindness through our collective donations. The Saskatoon City Employees Credit Union and the City of Saskatoon have partnered to bring an Act of Kindness Board to this year's Civic Pancake Breakfast. You’ll have the option to purchase an extra $7 ticket to donate to someone in need of a hot breakfast today!
The City of Saskatoon is proud to host this annual zero-waste event with compostable, recyclable, and reusable supplies.
In advance, we thank all our valued sponsors who helped to make this fundraising event possible, successful, and sure to be a well-attended community event!
All are welcome! Hope to catch you on the flip side at today’s pancake breakfast!
Celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day by participating in Rock Your Roots Walk for Reconciliation
June 14, 2022 - 8:30 am
After a two year pause due to COVID, the Rock Your Roots Walk for Reconciliation is back in-person for the community to gather together and celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21) at 10:00 a.m.
Rock Your Roots is put on by Reconciliation Saskatoon, which the City of Saskatoon co-chairs along with the Office of the Treaty Commissioner. The event, attended by thousands in past years, was first held in 2016 with attendance growing each year. The intent is to answer the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's Calls to Action by demonstrating a commitment to Reconciliation, honouring Residential School Survivors, and working towards an inclusive community.
“The significance of a walk can be attributed to the Sunday walks in residential schools; this was often the only time when siblings and cousins of different genders might be reunited,” says Judy Pelly, a Residential School Survivor and member of the Rock Your Roots Walk organizing committee. “It’s meaningful for organizers to see Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples come together in this way.”
Individuals of all ages are invited to attend, including groups representing organizations, workplaces, and schools. Cultural performers from across the city have been invited to ‘rock their roots’ along the walk route by sharing a piece of their culture and showcasing Saskatoon’s incredible diversity.
“This walk is an opportunity to learn about and honour Indigenous history as well as celebrate the cultural mosaic that is our community,” says Shirley Isbister, President of the Central Urban Métis Federation Inc. (CUMFI). “It’s an inclusive event that welcomes everyone to participate; I’m really hoping that we’ll see a great turnout.”
“Rock Your Roots is an opportunity to bring our community together to understand and be educated on residential schools that have negatively impacted Indigenous peoples,” says Saskatoon Tribal Chief Mark Arcand. “This walk is a sign of Reconciliation and a commitment to change for the better, so that all people can have a quality of life.”
Walk participants are invited to wear their cultural regalia, an EveryChildMatters shirt, or any other orange shirt. Rock Your Roots t-shirts – with all proceeds directed to programming and activities for Rock Your Roots – can be ordered by emailing RockYourRootstshirts@gmail.com.
“Rock Your Roots represents an acknowledgment of the multi-generational impacts of residential schools and a commitment to Reconciliation,” says Saskatoon Mayor Charlie Clark. “It’s a public demonstration of support for residential school attendees and those lost. It’s a promise to work towards a future that affords every member of our community equal opportunity.”
The Rock Your Roots Walk for Reconciliation event takes place on National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21) in Victoria Park between 10:00 and 11:30 a.m. The start location is in Victoria Park near Legion Branch 63 on Spadina Crescent West. All are welcome. More information is available at saskatoon.ca/Indigenous.
Saskatoon Transit service adjustments – effective May 29, 2022
May 24, 2022 - 2:30 pm
Starting Sunday, May 29, 2022, three Saskatoon Transit routes will experience changes to provide improved reliability and connectivity to the system.
Route 1 - Exhibition
Route 1 will incorporate a part of Route 20, which includes Brand Road, Melville Street and South Industrial. With this extension of service, regular frequency and service throughout the day will become available to the Auto Mall Village and South Industrial.
Route 20 – S. Industrial
The South Industrial portion of the Route 20 will be replaced with the Route 1 extension.
Route 13 - Avalon / Lawson Heights
From July through to August, Route 13 is expected to be impacted at 12th Street and University Drive due to summer construction. A planned detour will move Route 13 to 8th Street and Clarence Avenue. Route 13 will continue to service Broadway Avenue south of 8th Street, with additional frequency along Clarence Avenue.
Transit customers are encouraged to learn about the route changes by going to the website, calling the Transit Customer Service Centre at 306-975-3100 or using the transit app to plan their trip.
Riders are encouraged to plan their trip in advance and review the updated schedules before travelling. Riders can pin the routes they use most often in the transit app to get push notifications of service alerts.
Bus service to SaskTel Centre
May 17, 2022 - 9:30 am
- 6:45 p.m.
- 7:25 p.m.
Direct service from the Special Events Stop (outside the 2nd Avenue Lofts at 23rd Street and 2nd Avenue) to see Avril Lavigne at SaskTel Centre on Wednesday, May 18, is available at the following times:
Post event drop-off is the downtown terminal and regular fares apply ($3.00 per trip). Fare can be purchased on your mobile phone using either the TGo or transit app, transfers and passes are also accepted.
Plan your trip to events at SaskTel Centre on Route 333 using the Transit app up to two weeks in advance! Check out the Transit+ feature that helps make connections that combine Transit with riide and Uber. Transit does the work so you can travel with ease! Download the Transit app from the Apple Store or Google Play.
To protect the health and safety of residents, customers and employees, masks are required when traveling on Saskatoon Transit.
Transit service times for special events at SaskTel Centre and other popular destinations can always be found at SaskatoonTransit.ca/plan-my-trip/popular-destinations. Experience the convenience of using Saskatoon Transit to attend all your favourite events.
BYXE Week May 16-20: Where will the ride take you?
May 12, 2022 - 2:30 pm
Monday, May 16 kicks off the annual Spring BYXE Week! Many activities and events are planned throughout the week, including the return of in-person commuter stations on Bike to Work Day Thursday, May 19. Local advocacy group, Saskatoon Cycles, is coordinating the events in partnership with the City.
Cycling is a convenient and low-cost form of everyday transportation that benefits Saskatoon by decreasing traffic congestion, noise and air pollution. Riding a bike is also great for physical and mental health; regular exercise leaves you feeling refreshed, energized and alert. Riding your bike can save you money when gas prices are climbing, plus the infrastructure costs less than building and maintaining more roads.
Where will the ride take you? BYXE Week is a great time to tune-up your bikes and explore Saskatoon and all its beauty as spring blooms. The 2022 Cycling Guide is now available with bike routes and safety tips; and people can take the challenge to find brightly-coloured decorated bikes parked around the city or tackle a BYXE Week scavenger hunt.
Thursday, May 19 Bike to Work Day Commuter Stations, sponsored by local organizations and businesses, will be serving refreshments and snacks for people on bikes during their morning (7-9 a.m.) and afternoon (4-6 p.m.) commutes.
If you live too far away to ride your bike, consider taking Saskatoon Transit part of the way. All buses are equipped with front bike racks that are free and easy to use. Plan your trip using the Transit app and Google Transit.
Share your pedal adventures! Snap pics along your ride and post them with #BYXE and we may share them on our pages, plus you’ll be entered to win prizes.
Visit saskatooncycles.org/BYXE for details about the week-long activities planned and join our Facebook Event for updates.