The Multicultural Association of Wood Buffalo is hosting a free event on Human Rights Day for community groups to discuss common issues and find solutions.
The event will be on Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2019 at Shell Place from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
There will be panel discussions and keynotes speeches with opportunities for conversation and performances by Indigenous and newcomer artists as well as a lunch.
Speaking from the indigenous community will be Robert Cree, Multicultural Association board member and Bill Loutit, CEO of the McMurray Métis.
In a press release Cree said through working with newcomers to Canada and local cultural heritage groups, the Multicultural Association provides opportunities for people to connect with other members of the community and share the rich history and traditions of the region.
“As an Elder in my First Nations community, I know it is important to showcase our culture and heritage to newcomers to Canada so that they are aware of the important role the First Nations people have played in our country’s history.”
He will be speaking on the importance of preserving traditional knowledge with a panel that includes Bill Loutit and Somali community member Jama Ali, along with Pradeep Mehta, who is overseeing the development of McMurray’s Hindu Temple.
Wayne Arthurson will also be a guest speaker. He is a professional writer of Cree and French-Canadian descent and will addressing the need for cultural sensitivity when depicting different cultures through writing and art. He will also be participating in an afternoon panel alongside local artists Fred McDonald, Julia McDougall and Sharon Heading.
The event is being held with funding from the Alberta Ministry of Culture and Tourism and in partnership with the Athabasca Tribal Council and Arts Council Wood Buffalo.
Registration for the event can be done online.
