FREDERICTON – It will be a night to remember when a full circle group of visual and performing artists gather to share a story of the Wabanaki people at the Gelu’lg Maw-a-paw Gala, hosted by New Brunswick Community College on October 25. The gala supports NBCC’s Indigenous Student Bursary Fund.
We Are Wabanaki is a performance group brought together by Natalie Sappier-Samaqani Cocahq, a noted Wolastoqiyik inter-disciplinary artist from Tobique First Nation. Storytellers, drummers and dancers come together with visual and media artists to weave a rich tapestry of narrative about the Wabanaki peoples. Sappier serves as artistic director, production manager and, sometimes, performer.
“The purpose of this coming together of artists is to share the stories of this land through Wabanaki voice, presented by Wabanaki people,” said Sappier. “I try my best to make sure every voice is being heard and the story is being led by the entire group.”
“We Are Wabanaki complements NBCC’s ongoing efforts to develop deeper understanding and relationships with the Peoples on whose homelands we live and work,” said Sharon Thira, Director of Indigenous Learning and Engagement at NBCC. “Events like the Gala and performers like We Are Wabanaki recognize that our stories share our dreams, our values and our connection to the land. They show us the way forward in hopes that our next generations can walk together, respecting each other and the land.”
Since 2015, NBCC Indigenous Gala events have raised $50,000 for the NBCC Indigenous Student Bursary Program.
“We invite the larger community to join us in raising funds in support of more opportunities for Indigenous learners,” said Suzanne Desrosiers, Vice President Employee and Student Development at NBCC.
The Gelu’lg Maw-a-paw Gala takes place on Friday, October 25 at the Delta Fredericton. For ticket information or to learn how your organization can sponsor the event, email giving@nbcc.ca. Tax receipts will be provided with each ticket purchase. For more information, please visit www.nbcc.ca/gala
