The Philippine Cultural Association of Yellowknife is holding a community vigil in honour of the eleven people who were tragically murdered during the Lapu Lapu Day Festival tragedy on April 26 in Vancouver.
“Let us come together in mourning, remembrance and solidarity as one community. Everyone is welcome. We grieve together. We heal together,” said the Philippine Cultural Association in an announcement on April 28.
Luksang Bayan: A Community Vigil will be held at the Somba K’e Civic Plaza Amphitheatre in Yellowknife on Friday May 2 at 6:30 pm
N.W.T. is home to many members of the Filipino community and since the tragedy, leaders across N.W.T. have made special announcements of condolences and solidarity.
“I would like to begin by acknowledging on behalf of Council members and residents the horrific and tragic events surrounding the senseless vehicle attack in Vancouver. On behalf of all residents, I offer our sincere condolences to the families, friends and loved ones of the victims of this tragedy. The Yellowknife Filipino community forms an invaluable part of Yellowknife’s rich cultural heritage. Yellowknife stands with the Filipino community and offer our unqualified support and compassion during this time,” said Deputy Mayor Ben Hendriksen.
“This loss is deeply felt here in Yellowknife, especially within Yellowknife’s Filipino community, whose presence is an integral part of the city. The City of Yellowknife stands in solidarity with those mourning across the country and grieves alongside our residents affected by this tragedy — your sorrow is shared by all of us,” said city Council in a joint statement.
Earlier this week, Premier R.J. Simpson made a special announcement offering condolences to everyone affected by the tragic events at the Lapu Lapu Day Filipino street festival in Vancouver.
“The heartbreaking news from Vancouver has left many of us in the Northwest Territories shaken and grieving. Our thoughts are with the families who have lost loved ones, those who were injured, and all those whose lives have been forever changed by this senseless act,” said Simpson.
“On behalf of all Northerners, I offer my heartfelt condolences to the victims, their families, and the Filipino community across Canada. Our hearts are with you during this painful time.”
