Returning Home Social Cultural Gathering

The Returning Home Cultural Celebrations, held from August 12 to 15, 2024, was a huge success, bringing together community members for a week of cultural experiences and growth. The event featured hands-on activities like dreamcatcher crafting, moose meat cutting, and fish preparation, offering a deep dive into cultural heritage. Workshops on Wellness and Healing, Traditional Methods of Healing, and Lateral Violence, led by experts such as Victor Tssessaze and Cindy Caisse, provided valuable insights into community well-being.

Storytelling sessions with Elders helped strengthen bonds and foster connections to the past. The Ground Radar Search team from Askihk Research Services, led by Micaela Champagne and Angela Burant, contributed by scanning burial sites linked to residential school stories, highlighting the commitment to understanding shared history.

Special thanks go to all contributors, including Benita Moccasin (dreamcatcher making), Victor Tssessaze (art therapy), and others for various activities like haircuts and massage therapy. Traditional ceremonies were guided by Elders, including a feast, fire ceremony, pipe ceremonies, sweats, and a giveaway, with Jeannet Bugler hosting the women's sweat. Dene and Cree MCs Willis Janvier and Tsi-Boy Iron led the event, and performances included drumming and powwow dancing by groups led by Victor Tssessaze and Brian Ernest. Gospel music was provided by Jake Bouvier and Nina Iron.

Meals were generously prepared by community members, with wild meat donated by Chris Roy. The success of the event was also due to the behind-the-scenes work of those from La Plonge and Beauval. The Returning Home Cultural Celebrations not only celebrated traditions but also promoted healing and dialogue, setting the stage for future gatherings to honor shared heritage.