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New book celebrates people and events that shaped Abbotsford

Pre-sales launched for Abbotsford – A Diverse Tapestry, to be released in fall
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Pre-sales have been launched for the new book Abbotsford – A Diverse Tapestry, which will be released in the fall. Submitted photo

Pre-sales have been launched for a new book about Abbotsford’s history.

Abbotsford – A Diverse Tapestry will be released this fall and is about the people, cultures and events that have inspired and shaped the city.

The cost for the softcover book is $29, and it is being released in conjunction with the City of Abbotsford’s 25th anniversary celebration of the amalgamation of the districts of Abbotsford and Matsqui.

Kris Foulds, curator of historical collections at The Reach Gallery Museum, said the group putting the book together is proud to bring forward these stories, particularly ones that have been left out of history books.

“Little did we know when we first started this project several years ago how relevant and important it would be in the year of its release, in 2020, due to a heightened awareness of systemic racism and desire to center marginalized communities within the city,” she said.

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Abbotsford – A Diverse Tapestry presents some of the many histories and biographies of the people that make up the diverse social and cultural tapestry of Abbotsford.

The book shares different perspectives on city history with the intent of celebrating and strengthening community relationships through awareness.

Written in the midst of a time of powerful social change, Foulds said the authors hope this work contributes to the kind of education and learning that may ultimately nurture empathy and unity, thereby supporting us in being the best neighbours we can be to one another.

Pre-sales can be processed at The Reach Gallery Museum at 32388 Veterans Way. Videos of book readings and promotion can be viewed on the City of Abbotsford website, through their Canada Day promotions at abbotsford.ca.

Copies of the print art from the cover will also be available for $29.

Profits from the book will be donated to the Abbotsford Community Foundation, specifically for at-risk youth.

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