A gingko tree will be planted at a new Richmond gathering place that is being created to promote peace.
The Rotary Club of Richmond Sunset is raising money to build a Peace Garden in Garden City Park.
They’ve raised $160,000 so far, with a goal of $300,000.
Originally, the plan was to have a seedling from a gingko tree that survived the Hiroshima atomic bombing planted at the Peace Garden in Garden City Park. But the process of bringing it from California was too onerous, explained Magdalen Leung, who has been spearheading the garden initiative.
The idea of a Peace Garden started when the Russia-Ukraine war was launched.
Leung approached the city with her idea and it was well received, she told the Richmond News.
Fundraising has included applying for Rotary grants as well as local fundraisers such as the Winter Wonderland at Richmond City Hall.
But since the Sunset club let other Rotary clubs know about the idea, donations have been pouring in from across Canada and around the world.
A concept plan for the garden was presented to city council’s parks, recreation and cultural services committee and was approved unanimously. It will come back to city council for final approval.
The garden is described by city staff as a “peaceful gathering space… to promote reflection, intercultural harmony and community connection.”
“The overall goal is to create a gathering space that feels both inclusive and peaceful, providing a welcoming spot for visitors of all backgrounds to rest, reflect and connect with nature,” reads a report from city staff.
“This (will be) a place… where people can contemplate, they can sit and they can share,” Leung explained.
The Peace Garden is proposed for the northwest area of the park and will be 430 square metres in size.
It will include an entry plaza, a walkway and a seating area. There will be poles with "peace" written in different languages as well.
The gingko tree will be planted in the entry plaza.
Construction of the Peace Garden is expected to begin next spring with a completion date of summer 2026.
As a fundraiser, the Rotary club is selling bricks for $200 which will be inscribed with messages. So far, 300 out of 500 have been sold.
Anyone interested in buying a brick can contact Leung at [email protected].
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