After an extensive and Indigenous-led design competition, the City of Calgary has selected a design concept for the future Indian Residential School Memorial.

The selected concept, The Wandering Spirit by Ground3 Inc (groundcubed) and Adrian Stimson, was chosen by a jury composed of Indigenous members, including Elders, alongside technical experts. It best meets the competition criteria, aligns with cultural and community values, and honours the vision for this important site.

Located at The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland, the future memorial will be a space of historical acknowledgement, ceremony, and healing. It’s also intended as a lasting place for reflection, dialogue, and connection.

“This memorial represents a commitment to truth, acting as a place of remembrance, and a call to action. It will stand as a permanent reminder of the children who never returned home, the survivors who carry deep scars, and the families and communities who continue to live with the intergenerational impacts of the residential school system,” said Mayor Jyoti Gondek. “I’m grateful to the Elders, survivors, and Indigenous leaders who have shaped this vision from the beginning. Their voices, teachings, and strength have guided this process — and will continue to guide us on the path of reconciliation. Through this memorial, we honour the past while also building a future grounded in respect, understanding, and shared healing.”

The design team has finalized contract negotiations with the city. Over the coming months, the project will move into the detailed design phase, where the concept will be refined before construction planning begins.

The design competition began in fall 2024, following a two-stage process starting with a Request for Pre-Qualification and moving to a detailed design competition Request for Proposal. Four Indigenous-led teams were shortlisted to submit final concepts.