Community Reflection Space

What is a community reflection space?

A community reflection space is a dedicated public space for the purpose of bringing the community together when faced with tragic histories and current events. Events that provoke public grieving occur spontaneously at the local, national and global level. Whether it is a fatal accident, findings related to past atrocities, or the escalation of an armed conflict, members of the public are often confronted with tragic news. A designated Community Reflection Space acknowledges the complexity of emotions evoked during tragic circumstances and the importance of community gathering to our collective wellbeing.

Where will the Community Reflection Space be located?
Council has supported the staff recommendation for the Community Reflection Space to be located at Town Hall. During the consultation phase, staff learned that selecting a location that is publicly connected and provides a level of privacy best supports the mandate of the Community Reflection Space. The area being considered at Town Hall provides close parking, nearby staff oversight, and a secluded space within a larger connected area. Town Hall is less impacted by the recreation-based activities that frequently occur at the other locations, and the area identified does not have a pattern of use that is misaligned with the function of a Community Reflection Space.

What features will the space include?
The intention of the Community Reflection Space is to operate year-round, and it will require specific features and amenities, including, but not limited to:

• Security lighting
• Benches
• Weatherproof shelter and changeable signage
• Inclusion of a public art component

Background

On January 16, 2023, the Town’s Indigenous Relations Committee (IRC), discussed establishing a public space for the community to gather and share condolences related to Truth and Reconciliation. The absence and importance of such a space within Aurora was identified and a small working group comprised of IRC members met to determine possible locations, features and project scope.

On February 13, 2023, the IRC was presented with the findings of the working group. The scope of the space was modified to include reflection for all tragic situations regardless of their location, cultural affiliation and cause.

Staff identified the eastern parkette within the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Park as an ideal location for a Community Reflection Space. A funding request is included in the 2024 and 2025 budgets to advance this project, including consultation and capital costs.

On November 21, 2023, a report was submitted to Council, which contained the following recommendations:

1. That Report No. CMS23-050 be received; and
2. That Council approve proceeding with the design of a Community Reflection Space; and
3. That Council approve the eastern portion of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Park as the preferred site for the Community Reflection Space.

The first two recommendations passed, and the third failed. Council requested that staff engage in public consultation prior to an area being selected.