The College of New Caledonia will host an Aboriginal History Day celebration on Wednesday March 13 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Gathering Place at the Prince George Campus. The college is hosting the event to provide opportunities to learn from Elders and knowledge holders while experiencing the traditions and ways of Indigenous culture.
Several participants will join from First Nations in the region CNC serves. Many will also feature Métis cultural practices.
This event provides a venue for many young Indigenous people to proudly share and celebrate their heritage. For young Indigenous people, this has not always been easy.
Allyship via CNC’s collective action and support for this event is also an important part of the cultural celebration. Organizers are encouraging everyone, Indigenous and non-Indigenous participants alike, to actively engage in the many activities. They will have diverse opportunities to learn about, understand, and celebrate Indigenous history and cultural practices. All are welcome.
Presenters at Wednesday’s celebration will include:
- Michael Antoine and Tracy Peters – cultural art work, drumming and singing;
- Roy and Terry Nooski – Nadleh Whut’en Elders – traditional medicines;
- Julie Jacque – Takla Elder, showcasing her cultural crafts;
- Violet Prince and Maggie Morris – Nak’azdli Elders – sharing their traditional medicines;
- Genny Pierre – Tl’azt’en Elder – showcasing traditional cultural crafts;
- Marie Desjarlais – Cree Métis Elder crafter;
- Joyce Roberts – Métis Elder – Métis exhibit;
- Crystal Behn – Dene – Manitobah Mukluks artist – exceptional beader;
- Tom Mowatt – Gitxsan – cultural art work and story teller;
- Grant West – Traditional dancer, comes from the Nad’uten Territory (Lake Babine);
- Jolene Prince – Nak’azdli Pipe Carrier, sun dancer, eagle star woman, and holistic healer;
- UNBC – First Nations Centre; and
- IMSS – supporting diversity in the college.
CNC executive director of Aboriginal education Marlene Erickson will also provide an overview of traditional girl and womanhood, given the important role of women as leaders, healers, and participants in community decision making in Yinka Dene society. The discussion will take place on Thursday March 14 from noon to 1 p.m. in CNC’s theatre (room 1-306) at the Prince George campus.