‘Every Child Matters’ crosswalk unveiled in North Vancouver

A new orange “Every Child Matters” crosswalk has been unveiled at the intersection of Dollarton Highway and Sleil-Waututh Road in North Vancouver. The project is a collaboration between səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation), the Orange Shirt Society, and the District of North Vancouver.

The crosswalk design was created by Tsleil-Waututh artist Candace Thomas. Her work features a Thunderbird symbol that honours Residential School Survivors, children who never returned home, and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women.

This is one of eight crosswalks across Canada installed as part of the Every Child Matters Crosswalk Project by the Orange Shirt Society. According to the society, the initiative aims to create safe spaces for Survivors and their families to feel seen and honoured, while reminding Canadians that what happened in residential schools matters today as well as in history.

Community members gathered for a ceremony on September 17, along with Phyllis Webstad, CEO of the Orange Shirt Society and co-founder of Orange Shirt Day, who the Tsleil-Waututh Nation welcomed. Delegates from the District of North Vancouver also attended.

“The crosswalk is a true gift to our community,” said səlilwətaɬ Chief Justin Sky George. “It honours our Residential and Day School Survivors and sends a clear message to the external community and allies that we welcome them to walk with us on this journey of reconciliation.”

Orange Shirt Society president Seli’xwelut-Shannon Henderson said the crosswalks represent more than symbols. “The Every Child Matters Crosswalk is part of painting Canada orange, one community at a time. Each step across it is a promise to remember, to listen, and to stand with Indigenous families and communities.”

The North Shore Community Foundation has supported the project. District of North Vancouver Mayor Mike Little said the orange crosswalk is “a powerful symbol of resiliency” and an essential step in reconciliation.