This book stands as a rebuttal to the “great man” theory. Its title, Abbotsford: A Diverse Tapestry, expresses the story of our city from the “bottom up.” Leaders, of course, receive their due acknowledgement in these pages – councillors, mayors, journalists, social activists, religious mentors – those who have given so much of themselves for the good of their city. Essentially, though, this book describes the formation of Abbotsford through the efforts of communities coming together, building something greater than the sum of its parts.
Robert Martens, Editor’s Foreword
Published in Spring 2021, Abbotsford: A Diverse Tapestry is a local publication of stories that make Abbotsford what it is, fittingly told from many perspectives.
In anticipation of the book’s release, the University of the Fraser Valley began a student-led project called Recording Abbotsford’s Public and Political History. The result is this website – a portal to local information and a collection of interviews with people who have factored greatly in Abbotsford’s recent social, political, economic, cultural, and environmental history.
The interview project is on-going, just as contributors to A Diverse Tapestry recognize that there are stories that have yet to be heard.
There are two threads that weave through the book and interviews: a call to action and a reminder that there is hope. Whether you are a long-time member of the Fraser Valley community or have recently moved here, it is possible to make a difference. Many of the stories show how a small action can grow and encourage big change.
The book was completed and the project begun during Covid-19, which in itself is a reminder that blind optimism and cold defeatism are not the only options in a difficult time. Hope is closely tied to empathy and remembering to celebrate. What better way to nurture hope than to learn about our diverse community, situated in the beautiful Fraser Valley!
And a good place to begin is to listen to each other’s stories.
Copies of Abbotsford: A Diverse Tapestry are available for purchase at:
Featured cover artwork by Linda Klippenstein|https://linda.klippenstein.ca/