REGINA — The City of Regina is inviting Indigenous youth to submit a “Tree of Life” design that could appear in the updated Urban Forest Management Plan, a long-term strategy that guides how Regina protects, plants, cares for and grows its urban forest.
The “Tree of Life” is a central symbol in many Indigenous cultures, expressing the interconnection of all living beings. Its roots grounding in the earth reflect relationships to land, ancestors and identity, while the branches symbolize spirit, knowledge and the continuity of life.
The selected “Tree of Life” artwork will appear in the final Urban Forest Management Plan document and in other city communications that help residents understand Regina’s urban forest.
This initiative allows Indigenous youth to share how they see life, growth and connection to the land. It symbolizes the Indigenous knowledge, perspectives and lived experience that helped shape the Urban Forest Management Plan and recognizes Indigenous relationships with the land as part of the city’s work towards reconciliation and environmental stewardship.
Indigenous youth ages 12 to 20 who attend or participate in programs at Regina-based educational institutions may submit original artwork until April 12. Youth can submit artwork in any two-dimensional medium, including digital illustration, painting, photography, drawing, collage or mixed media.
Submissions will be reviewed by the Urban Forest Management Plan project team, which includes Elders, Knowledge Keepers and city staff. Designs will be evaluated on how well they reflect the “Tree of Life” theme, express Indigenous identity and creativity, connection to the natural environment, life and community and are suitable for use across print and digital formats. Up to five finalists will receive honoraria, including a $1,000 award for the selected design. Support is available for those who require assistance with the submission process.
Visit Regina.ca/TreeOfLife for additional information about eligibility and the submission process.
