The Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association (CSAA), the Shingwauk Residential Schools Centre (SRSC), and partners will be hosting the third annual “Shingwauk Gathering and Conference” from August 1st-3rd at Algoma University. This year’s theme is “Art and the Archive.”
Survivors and their families from around Ontario, including the Missanabie Cree First Nation, Chapleau First Nation, Batchewana First Nation, Garden River First Nation will make the trek to Sault Ste. Marie and the University to continue the work of “sharing, healing, and learning.” Many Métis and Inuit from as far north as the James Bay region, as far south as Walpole Island, and as far east as the Kanesatake and Kahnawake First Nations in Quebec will also make the trip to participate.
“As a survivor of the Indian Residential School (IRS) system, I am always encouraged and comforted whenever an event occurs such as the IRS Gathering and Conference planned for this August and hosted by Algoma University and the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association,” said Mike Cachagee, a member of the CSAA and the National Residential Schools Survivor Society. “Events such as these continue to build the sound foundation and momentum that will move us closer toward realizing true reconciliation.”
The CSAA and SRSC have developed a compelling line up of presentations and workshops on the theme of art and the SRSC’s archive. Jonathan Dewar, the SRSC’s Director says, “We are thrilled to welcome Ry Moran, newly appointed Director of the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation at the University of Manitoba, as our opening keynote speaker at 3pm on Friday, August 1st; Charlene Bearhead, the National Coordinator for Project of Heart, who will speak at 10:30am on Saturday, August 2nd; and, with special partner Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig, award winning artist Christi Belcourt, who will close the Gathering and Conference with a session that begins at 1pm on Sunday, August 3rd – among many other presenters.”
“We are pleased that the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association and the Shingwauk Residential Schools Centre are hosting the 2014 Shingwauk Gathering and Conference at Algoma University,”said Dr. Richard Myers, President of Algoma University. “Given the history of the University as an Indian Residential School site, the location is appropriate for Survivors, families, and community members to meet to discuss the First Nations’ people’s rich history and cultural significance.”
The conference is open to the public. Those interested in attending can register at http://shingwauk.org/srsc/node/17
