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Douglas College in New Westminster to open aboriginal gathering place Jan. 19

The New Westminster campus of Douglas College will soon have another community amenity. The aboriginal gathering place is a purpose-built extension to the fourth floor of the south building with a view of the Fraser River.

The New Westminster campus of Douglas College will soon have another community amenity.

The aboriginal gathering place is a purpose-built extension to the fourth floor of the south building with a view of the Fraser River. The space will feature commissioned artwork to showcase the art and culture of aboriginal peoples.

On Thursday, Jan. 19, there will be a two-part opening ceremony.

At 2:30 p.m., a traditional ceremony of smudging and cedar brushing the artwork will take place.

At 3 p.m., there will be a celebration in the performing arts theatre, with scheduled speeches from Lt.-Gov. Steven Point and Chief Rhonda Larrabee of the QayQayt Nation. The Git Hayetsk dancers are also scheduled to perform.

The facility will be a place where aboriginal students and members of the local community can gather together and celebrate.

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