Coming off a three-year hiatus, an annual festival honouring Indigenous knowledge and a path to understanding returns to the capital region this weekend.
Hosted by the M’akola Housing Society, Change-Makers Gathering Festival is set for Saturday, June 4th, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Starlight Stadium in Langford.
Organizers say all are welcome to join the free family fun, which includes drop-in cedar weaving and drum-making workshops led by Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers.
Indigenous drum and dance groups will perform throughout the day as various artisans set up shop, with activities also on tap for children hosted by local organizations like the YMCA.
Bannock tacos, a cultural meal enjoyed at Indigenous community events, will also be served to all in attendance at no charge, according to organizers.
“We want to create an opportunity for all community members to spend time together and get the opportunity to experience some Indigenous culture and knowledge sharing,” said M’akola Housing CEO Kevin Albers.
“Our team has benefitted from our friendships with Indigenous leaders and Knowledge Keepers, and we want to extend the gifts we’ve been offered to our West Shore community.”
This year, the festival logo is titled “Hands of Change” by Tsartlip Nation artist Chris Paul, with the festival itself based on the Elder’s teaching, “If you feel it in your heart, you should do it and not take it home with you.”
Event organizer Charla Huber says the teaching encourages people to follow their heart, especially if they have kind words or gestures to offer.
“We often overthink things and don’t do or say things that could make a difference to the people around us,” added Huber.
Change-Makers Gathering Festival
- When: Saturday, June 4th; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Where: Starlight Stadium, Langford Pkwy
