Prince George, B.C. – The University of Northern British Columbia, in partnership with the Lheidli T’enneh Nation, the College of New Caledonia, the Prince George Native Friendship Centre and the provincial Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, is hosting a full day of talks, interactive sessions and displays as part of the Prince George Regional Moose Hide Campaign Gathering on Feb. 24.

The Moose Hide Campaign is a grassroots movement of Indigenous and non-Indigenous men and boys who are standing up against violence towards women and children.

“At UNBC we are committed to providing a safe and positive work and learning environment for all students, faculty, staff and visitors to our campuses,” says UNBC Acting President Dr. Geoffrey Payne. “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. 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.”

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. Those interested in participating should register in advance.

Participants are encouraged to 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. The provincial Moose Hide Campaign Gathering takes place in Victoria.

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