A grassroots movement of Indigenous and non-Indigenous men and boys who are standing up against violence towards women and children will be the centrepiece of a day of talks, interactive sessions and displays at the University of Northern British Columbia.
That's where the regional Moose Hide Campaign Gathering will be hosted on Mon. Feb. 24.
Bruce Allan, educator from the Ts’umusyoo (Bear Clan) of the Stellat’en First Nation, will provide the first keynote address on his experience with adverse childhood experiences and his healing journey.
Francois ‘Guy’ Prince, a member of the Beaver Clan with the Nak’azdli Nation and Ruby Prince, a member of the Frog Clan with the Tl’azt’en Nation, will give the second keynote. They will speak about the roles and responsibilities based on the cultural teachings of the Dakelhne.
There will also be sessions on storytelling, intergenerational trauma, the impacts of colonization, and a number of talking circles. Lheidli T’enneh Elder Marcel Gagnon will be hosting prayer tie making as wellness support.
The full agenda is available online through the home page at unbc.ca. Those interested in participating are asked to register in advance.
“The Moose Hide Campaign is an important reminder that we still have a long way to go to eliminate gender-based violence in our society," said UNBC Acting President Dr. Geoffrey Payne. "Supporting the Moose Hide Campaign, and working towards ending violence against women and children, is an essential part of the ongoing conversation we are having at UNBC about reconciliation.”
Participants will wear a moose hide pin, which signifies a commitment to honour, respect and protect the women and children in your life and to work together to end violence against women and children. Supporters are also encouraged to fast from sunrise to sunset as a public demonstration of one’s values and intentions.
In addition to the events at UNBC, there will also be also be events at the Prince George Native Friendship Centre and the College of New Caledonia.
