JOINT PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
Event highlights more than a century of peace, environmental leadership, and shared history.
Langley City, BC & Bellingham, WA – On Friday, September 12, elected officials from Langley City and the City of Bellingham gathered in downtown Langley City for a ceremonial tree planting to celebrate more than 100 years of peace, friendship, and neighbourly connection across the U.S.-Canada border.
The event served as a symbolic gesture of unity, with the tree planting representing the relationship between the two communities and their joint commitment to environmental leadership.
“In a time where it can feel like we are defined by division, this ceremony reminds us of what brings us together,” said Langley City Mayor Nathan Pachal. “Our communities share the same air, water, and natural environment, and this tree represents our shared responsibility to protect it for future generations. It encourages us to continue building bridges, not barriers.”
Langley City and Bellingham continue to share a long history of trade, migration, and cultural exchange that reflects the broader ties between Metro Vancouver and the U.S.
“This tree is a symbol of our shared hope. Like our connection as neighbours, the tree will grow stronger with time”, said Bellingham Mayor, Kim Lund. “We are grateful for this opportunity to honour our commitment to each other and to the environment we share. We know that what brings us together is stronger than what pulls us apart.”
This tree ceremony was part of Langley City’s ongoing vision to build a vibrant, unique, safe, and inclusive community, working with neighbours near and far to ensure a thriving future for generations to come.
[Photos and video from the event are available by contacting Ram Chungh below]
Media contacts:
Ram Chungh
Manager, Communications & Public Engagement
City of Langley
rchungh@langleycity.ca | 604.240.3101
David Brauhn
Assistant Communications and Community Relations Director – Intergovernmental Focus
City of Bellingham
dmbrauhn@cob.org