Aether Rocero recounted the harrowing experience of witnessing the alleged assault at the Lapu-Lapu Day festival, which resulted in the deaths of 11 individuals and numerous injuries, as “terrifying.” The 17-year-old, now a graduate, was among the many students from John Oliver Secondary School in Vancouver impacted by the incident. The school is situated at the intersection of East 43rd Avenue and Fraser Street, where a vehicle plowed into a crowd during the Filipino street festival on April 26.
Despite the trauma, community members note that students have found solace and inspiration through unity and artistic expression. In the upcoming season, students will collaborate on a mural to adorn the school’s basketball and tennis courts overlooking East 43rd Avenue. Rocero expressed, “It serves as a reminder that the street is not defined solely by tragic events. It’s a way of reclaiming our space.”
Following his volunteer work at the festival, Rocero described the somber atmosphere upon returning to school the subsequent Monday as disheartening. He found solace in the act of painting as a means to articulate his emotions and cope with the grief and community resilience that emerged after the tragedy.
Local artist Mar Cortez, who had been engaging with the students beforehand, opened her classroom immediately after the incident for students to engage in painting sessions whenever they felt the need. Cortez spearheads the mural project, which will showcase vibrant ribbons, scenes of camaraderie, planting activities, sampaguita blossoms representing the Philippine national flower, and a symbolic phoenix rising from adversity.
Cortez emphasized that the mural’s imagery is a tribute to Filipino heritage, honoring those affected by the tragedy while symbolizing progress and hope for the future. She remarked, “Acknowledging and expressing grief is healthier than internalizing it. The students are resilient, striving to rebuild their lives while navigating their teenage years.”
The students at John Oliver School have been actively involved in a variety of initiatives, including a running club, friendship events, charitable drives, dance, sports, leadership workshops, and mental health support groups, throughout the summer and into the new academic year. These efforts have been supported by a grant aimed at aiding those impacted by the tragedy, coordinated by community organizations and stakeholders.
Alison McKenzie, director of The Landing Youth Centre, commended the students’ dedication, describing them as remarkable individuals. Despite the challenges they have faced, the youth in the community remain hopeful and eager to grow. Rocero, contributing to the mural project, aspires for it to serve as a symbol of unity, celebrating the Fraser Street neighborhood and Filipino culture. He expressed optimism, stating, “There is hope on the horizon. We just need to keep moving forward.”
