PR: September 26, 2023 - Downtown Duncan Business Improvement Area (DDBIA) Stands in Solidarity with Duncan's National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Walk

[Duncan, British Columbia]: The Downtown Duncan Business Improvement Area (DDBIA) is proud to announce its unwavering support for the organizers of Duncan's National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Walk, scheduled to take place on October 2, 2023. Recognizing the significance of this day, the DDBIA is committed to contributing to the community's efforts to promote unity, healing, and awareness.

“Please march with us on October 2 in a life-affirming action that recognizes and takes steps to repair the intergenerational harms done to Indigenous people,” says Katherine Devine, Executive Director at the DDBIA. “The goal is to prevent future abuse of Indigenous communities.”

In a collective effort to foster a stronger bond between our community and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the DDBIA is undertaking several initiatives:

Financial Support and Sponsorship: To express our commitment, the DDBIA is providing a $1000 sponsorship cheque to Makola Housing Society, the organizing body behind the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Walk. This contribution demonstrates our dedication to supporting initiatives that promote understanding and reconciliation.

Digital Billboard Advertisement: In the spirit of spreading awareness, the DDBIA will be offering a complimentary three-week digital billboard advertisement to promote the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation events. This gesture aims to reach a wider audience, ensuring that the importance of this day resonates throughout the community.

Print Media Coverage: The DDBIA recognizes the significance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and its role in our collective journey. To this end, we will be dedicating a prominent section of "Your Local" in the Cowichan Citizen, emphasizing the importance of the day and highlighting the events, community engagement, and initiatives planned for October 2nd.

Coordination with Downtown Businesses: Understanding the impact of community involvement, the DDBIA will establish direct communication channels with downtown businesses. Through email newsletters, handouts, and social media, we will raise awareness about the upcoming truth and reconciliation march on October 2nd. This collaborative effort ensures that the entire community is informed and engaged.

Information Dissemination: Recognizing the need for clear information, the DDBIA has created a tailored flyer for DDBIA members, outlining road closures and timings for the October 2nd march. Additionally, we will provide guidance to downtown Duncan businesses on ways to support and participate in the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, underscoring the significance of the day and the importance of community involvement.

The DDBIA and its participating businesses stand united in our support for Duncan's National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Walk. These initiatives are a testament to our commitment to fostering meaningful and sustainable change within our community. By actively participating in this journey towards truth and reconciliation, the DDBIA aims to contribute to a stronger, more united future for all.

For further information, please contact:

Katherine Devine, Executive Director, Downtown Duncan Business Improvement Area devine@downotownduncan.ca, 250-715-1700

About the Downtown Duncan BIA: Established in 1997, the Downtown Duncan BIA (DDBIA) is a non-profit organization under the direction of an elected volunteer Board of Directors. The purpose of the Downtown Duncan BIA is to foster a unique, diverse, and vibrant downtown business community.

About Makola Housing Society: Makola Housing Society is the driving force behind Duncan's National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Walk. Their commitment to fostering unity and understanding within the community aligns with the goals of the DDBIA.