Capilano University's Truth and Reconciliation Week closes with fashion show, book launch
Indigenous designers Sierra William, Jaden, and Diera Gutowski showcased traditional and contemporary pieces Monday. The week ended with Musqueam Elder Larry Grant celebrating a new memoir.
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Indigenous designers and models hit the runway Monday at Capilano University's North Vancouver campus as the school's Truth and Reconciliation Week drew to a close.
Three designers showcased their work: Sierra William (Chi?ela), from Xeni Gwet'in within the Tsilhqot'in Nation, created traditional clothing and beadwork drawing on her identity, culture and the memory of her late grandmother. Jaden, a St'át'imc and Secwépemc designer, crafted modern Indigenous pieces that share cultural stories and teachings through fashion. Diera Gutowski, from Opaskwayak Cree Nation with Swampy Cree heritage, designed garments rooted in teachings from her Kookum (grandmother in Cree) and connection to the land.
Capilano University's Truth and Reconciliation Week ran from September 23 to 29 and featured cultural performances from members of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish Nation), səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) and St'át'imc Nations.
The week closed Tuesday with xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) First Nation Elder Larry Grant celebrating the release of his memoir, "Reconciling: A Lifelong Struggle to Belong," which traces his experiences growing up with Musqueam and Chinese heritage, the impacts of exclusion under the Indian Act, and the broader histories of Indigenous revival, residential schools and migration in Vancouver.
Before you go
When did Capilano University's Truth and Reconciliation Week run?
The week ran from September 23 to 29, 2026 at Capilano University's North Vancouver campus.
Which Indigenous designers showcased work at the closing fashion show?
Sierra William (Chi?ela) from Xeni Gwet'in, Jaden, a St'át'imc and Secwépemc designer, and Diera Gutowski from Opaskwayak Cree Nation each presented their collections.
What book was launched at the week's closing?
'Reconciling: A Lifelong Struggle to Belong' is the memoir by xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) Elder Larry Grant, which covers his experiences with Musqueam and Chinese heritage, the Indian Act, residential schools, and Indigenous revival in Vancouver.
