Prince George, B.C. – The University of Northern British Columbia is collaborating with Prince George organizations and the provincial government this Wednesday to host the Moose Hide Campaign, a grassroots movement of Indigenous and non-Indigenous men standing up against violence towards women and children.

The day consists of a Provincial Gathering and a Day of Fasting, and includes a variety of presentations, workshops and cultural activities at UNBC. Presentations and workshops open to the public will also take place at the College of New Caledonia, the Prince George Native Friendship Centre, Hadih House, and the Fire Pit Cultural Drop-In Centre.

The Moose Hide Campaign was started by a father and daughter after a moose hunting trip in their traditional territory along Highway 16 – the Highway of Tears – in northwestern British Columbia. It has grown from a single event to events across Canada, including Prince George. Participants are encouraged to wear a moose hide pin that signifies their support in honouring, respecting, and protecting women and children.

“I’m happy to have the opportunity to publicly support the Moose Hide Campaign, and to help in the effort to raise awareness and action to end violence against women and children in Canada,” said Dr. Dan Ryan, UNBC Provost and Vice President Academic. “UNBC is committed to promoting a safe and inclusive environment, and to the promotion of healthy relationships, consent, and positive ideas of masculinity. I have been wearing my Moose Hide pin since I learned of the campaign over a year ago, and it has started many conversations.”

Events at UNBC begin with free registration at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 13, followed by opening ceremonies, keynote speakers, presentations, and a catered lunch at the Gathering Place. For a full list of events, visit: https://www.unbc.ca/events/49959/moose-hide-campaign-provincial-gathering-and-day-fasting

Pre-registration is encouraged at: moosehidecampaign.ca

Afternoon events take place at the College of New Caledonia with presentations and workshops.

“When a community comes together, change happens,” said Marlene Erickson, CNC Director of Aboriginal Education. “This year, we’re proud to be a partner bringing the important message of the Moose Hide campaign to the communities CNC serves.”

The Prince George Native Friendship Centre is also hosting workshops in the afternoon, with a Breaking Fast Celebration and Feast beginning at 5 p.m.

“The Prince George Native Friendship Centre is very proud to be hosting the Regional Moose Hide Event in Prince George,” said Prince George Native Friendship Centre Executive Director Barb Ward-Burkitt. “We look forward to this collaborative and respectful engagement as we all come together in the call across our country to end violence toward Indigenous women and children. This is just one of many ways to make a personal commitment to honouring and protecting the women and children in our lives. Thank you for your interest and participation.”

The Moose Hide Campaign is also supported by the government of British Columbia.

“Education is critical to creating a society where violence against women and children is unacceptable, so I am delighted to see UNBC participate in this year’s Moose Hide Campaign Day in such a positive way,” said Scott Fraser, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation. “I have participated in Moose Hide events since the campaign started in 2011, and I am proud of the way it has grown and carried its important message across B.C. and throughout Canada.”

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