Moose Jaw will host first-ever National Gathering in Canada
Speakers and many people from across the globe will gather in Moose Jaw on Monday, April 23 to Saturday, April 28 for the first ever Atamiskākēwak 2018—National Gathering to be held in Canada. The first day of events kicks off at the Heritage Inn.
The National Gathering will focus on areas of foster care, faith relations, and all areas of the 94 Calls to Action; Child Welfare, Education, Language and Culture, Health, Justice, Professional Development and Training for Public Servants, Church Education for Reconciliation, Youth Programs/Sports and Reconciliation, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG), Business and Reconciliation.
According to the National Gathering’s website, Atamiskākēwak 2018 is the “bringing together of all people in a week of experiences, education, understanding and fun, bridging the gap be- tween Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. This will be a week that has something for everyone; no matter the age, demographic or knowledge level, all coming together and “Shaking Hands in Greeting with each Other.” Chris McKee, Executive Facilitator for the National Gathering says this will be a fun week of activities but also a learning experience for many. He is inviting everyone to attend this important event. “There will be a full range of events throughout the week that people can look forward to. There will be something for everyone. This is the first of its kind ever to be held in Canada and it is taking place right here in our city on Treaty 4 territory,” he said. “We’re offering all events throughout the week, free of charge so that all people can attend wherever they see fit. It is 100 per cent about reconciliation, not only in our own country but across the world. People who have signed up to attend are coming from all over the world—as far away as Uganda and South Africa. It’s all about bridging the gap between indigenous and non-indigenous cultures so this is a very important event for our city. We want everyone who can attend to come out and we also invite anyone who wants to partner with us for this event.”
Speakers for the National Gathering includes: Robb Nash, Chief Joseph, Andrew Micklefield, Gerry Stonechild, Kevin Haywahe, Kevin McKenzie, Lori-Lee & Kevin Harris, Noel Starblanket and performances by Terrance Littletent and Thundering Hills Dance Troupe.
For more information and to see event dates and times or to register, visit their website at www.nationalgathering.ca. Converging Pathways and Indigenous Pathways have partnered on a shared initiative with the City of Moose Jaw to host this event.