Cowichan Tribes Hosts 42nd Annual BC Elders’ Gathering: ‘I tst ‘o’ hwun’ ‘I (We are Still Here)

3/13/2018

COWICHAN TERRITORY – DUNCAN, BC - Cowichan Tribes is honoured to host Elders from across the province in our traditional territory to attend the 42nd Annual BC Elders’ Gathering on July 10-12 at Island Savings Centre.

“We are looking forward to welcoming family, friends and relatives and celebrating ‘I tst ‘o’ hwun’ ‘I (We are Still Here),” said Ed and Juanita Elliott, who were chosen to be the 2017-2018 Elders’ Gathering King and Queen.
The Elders’ Gathering is an event that brings Elders together to make connections, learn and celebrate through workshops and cultural demonstrations. The Elders’ Gathering website was launched in January 2018 and those interested can register and find additional details at www.eldersgathering.ca.

“This is an excellent opportunity for our community and neighbours to come together with Nuts’a’maat shqwaluwun (one heart, one mind) just like we did in 2008 for the North American Indigenous Games and Tribal Journeys,” said Chief William (Chip) Seymour of Cowichan Tribes.
Organizers and partners hope Elders enjoy themselves and nurture their spirit over the three days, connecting with one another and gaining inspiration as Elders for the special role they have in community. Cowichan Tribes encourages all attendees to share their wisdom, culture, and history. There will be a full schedule of activities based on our theme: ‘I tst ‘o’ hwun’ ‘I (We are still here).

“The First Nations Health Authority is pleased to be a sponsor for the 42nd annual BC Elders’ Gathering,” said FNHA CEO Joe Gallagher. “Honouring our Elders and supporting them to be well is an essential part of our vision, mission and mandate.”

The website will be updated frequently as details are finalized. For more information, or to invite the King and Queen to your community or an event, please contact our coordinator, Rozalee Daniels. Registration deadline for this year is May 25, 2018. Find out more at www.eldersgathering.ca.

Media Contacts:
Rozalee Daniels, Media Contact

FNHA Media

For More Information:
BC Elders Gathering: www.eldersgathering.ca
First Nations Health Authority: www.fnha.ca

Watch #EldersSpeak: What would you say to your 20-year-old self? – Filmed at the 2016 BC Elders Gathering: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7P24MvQTyUc&t

Watch #EldersSpeak Youth Responses – Filmed at the 2016 Gathering Our Voices youth conference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F9tJ23fQv58&t

FNHA Media media@fnha.ca

Download this media release in PDF format here (PDF 154 KB)