Learn about the history and impacts of colonization on Indigenous Peoples through a Blanket Exercise

The City of Port Moody invites community members to participate in a free Blanket Exercise, a powerful and interactive learning experience that explores the history and ongoing impacts of colonization on Indigenous Peoples in Canada. This event is happening on September 30, 2026. Registration is required – visit portmoody.ca/signmeup today.

“Offered in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, this event honours residential school Survivors, their families and communities, and the children who never returned home,” says Mayor Meghan Lahti. “It provides an opportunity to deepen understanding, reflect on our shared history, and consider the role each of us can play in the ongoing journey toward reconciliation.”

Guided by Elder Sam George of Tsleil-Waututh Nation, participants will step into the roles of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples and move through key moments in history, from life before European contact to treaty-making, colonization, residential schools, Indigenous resistance, resilience, and reconciliation. Blankets represent Indigenous lands and change throughout the exercise, creating a powerful visual and participatory representation of the impacts of colonization on Indigenous communities, cultures, and ways of life. 

More than a presentation, the Blanket Exercise invites participants to experience history in a meaningful and memorable way. The session concludes with a facilitated talking circle where participants can reflect on what they have learned, ask questions, and share their perspectives in a respectful and supportive environment.

Blanket Exercise details

Date: Wednesday, September 30, 2026
Time: 1pm to 3:30pm
Location: Old Mill Boathouse, 2715 Esplanade Avenue, Port Moody
Cost: Free
Registration: Required – register at portmoody.ca/signmeup (space is limited and early registration is encouraged)
Age limit: Open to individuals aged 14 and older – participants under 18 years of age must provide a parent or guardian's signature

Important information for participants

Before you attend, please review the following information:

• wear comfortable clothing and be prepared to remove your shoes;
• all materials will be provided – please do not bring blankets or other items for use in the exercise;
• participants are asked to arrive on time and attend the full session;
• late entry cannot be accommodated; and
• photography, video recording, and audio recording are not permitted.

The Blanket Exercise may evoke strong emotions as participants engage with difficult and often painful chapters of Canada's history. The closing talking circle provides an opportunity for reflection, dialogue, and shared learning.

Getting there

Consider leaving the car at home – walk, bike, scoot, or take transit to the Old Mill Boathouse. Find information on our shared e-scooter/e-bike program at portmoody.ca, or check TransLink’s Trip Planner for transit routes and schedules. There is limited vehicle parking in the area with pay parking in effect at Rocky Point Park parking lots and Esplanade Avenue (from Rocky Point Park to Murray Street).

Need more information?

If you have questions about the Blanket Exercise, please contact Olga Cherepanova, Indigenous Relations Advisor, at ocherepanova@portmoody.ca.