Written by Hillary Tran (Class of 2023)
Photos and Film by Ashley Dong (Class of 2025) and Abigail Gong (Class of 2023)
Video by Abigail Gong (Class of 2023)

On Friday, September 9th, IGDVS teachers and students gathered in Wonderful Words Hall to honor and commemorate the illustrious life of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.

The memorial started with a student speaker, Hillary Tran (Class of 2023), who introduced the Queen through her symbolic impact as a female of immense power and authority. In times of adversity, her presence remained unchanged, a symbol of comfort and continuity. She was a diligent individual, paving the way for women of future generations.

Next, a video was played, highlighting the Queen’s life through numbers, such as being Britain’s longest reigning monarch with over seventy years on the throne and visiting over one hundred countries.

Following the video, Amy Liu (Class of 2023) and Erica Lai (Class of 2024) led the assembly to recite the Amitabha Sutra in honor of the Queen.

During the Rebirth in Pureland Mantra, everyone wrote handwritten messages to the Queen, immortalizing the respect they felt.

On September 21, 2022, in conjunction with Peace Day, the heartfelt messages were buried with a rock, symbolizing the perpetuity of these thoughts of gratitude and hope.

She is more than just a figurehead from England; she is an exemplary woman who engraved her profound influence across the globe. Thank you, Queen Elizabeth, for your lifelong service. We will continue to remember your legacy and follow your guiding light for years to come.