The following is a submission in collaboration with UFV’s Social Work 392: Community Development course. It was created by Latasia Commodore, Mandy Dhillon, Shardé Forbes, Emma Holmes, Gursimer Kaler, Chandani Kular, Oludotun Oluwasina, Chai Stanley, and Zain Zaidi
In a quiet corner in the southwestern perimeter of the Abbotsford campus, near the Student Union Building, there lies a powerful retreat. The small space that holds a history and serenity that extends far past its physical boundaries. Indigenous plants blanket the ground; salmonberries, wild raspberries, and wild carrots to name a few. A totem pole with eagles and ravens, carved by E’yies’lek of the Sts’ailes First Nations (also known as Rocky LaRock), stands tall in the garden’s center. It is a place of life, nourishment, and knowledge — and it is hidden in plain sight. Take a wander and stay a while, as all are welcome in this Living Classroom.
What is a Living Classroom?
A Living Classroom is a space where the UFV community can connect in the natural environment. The Indigenous garden itself is a space for one to focus on interconnectedness to the land, each other, and ourselves. It continues to remind us of the path towards reconciliation. Filled with Indigenous plants and medicines, the Living Classroom offers a stunning sanctuary for meditations. The design of a circle also fosters a natural, immersive space for story telling, healing circles, forest bathing, or even a space to find some quiet away from the Green.
Did you know?
You can find rose hips in the Living Classroom from late summer and into the fall season. Rose hips are used in traditional medicines alone or as an additive. They can also be brewed as a tea, used in jellies, and are used in a variety of baked goods and dishes.
