Gathering: Festival of First Nation Stories
At the meeting of Lakes Couchiching and Simcoe, the Chippewas of Rama First Nation territory has been called ‘The Gathering Place’ where travelers could meet, rest, and share stories along their journeys. Gathering: Festival of First Nation Stories continues this story, bringing together Indigenous storytellers, musicians, and artists for two days of conversations.
Presented by Arts Orillia, in partnership with Rama First Nation, the festival runs May 30th and 31st, bringing together a wide variety of voices from across Turtle Island as part of the path to Truth and Reconciliation. This year’s line up includes a robust list of insightful presentations and performances. Now in its seventh year, the festival takes place at Rama Community Hall, an intimate venue that allows for attendees to talk to the storytellers and authors in an authentic setting.
Stories through Music, Pen, and Film
Gathering festival begins Friday, May 30th with a welcome from Chief Ted Williams to kick off the event and an opportunity to meet guest artists. Headlining the evening is Christa Couture, a queer Indigenous woman and mother, and self-described “cyborg” with a high-tech robotic leg. She has led a remarkable life as an award-winning musician, author and broadcaster who has weathered an astonishing number of extreme experiences. Her stories link themes of hopefulness and hopelessness, and how they make life meaningful. Her memoir How to Lose Everything is now an Indigenous series of animated short films that explore personal stories of loss. The five films’ stories span nations, languages, and perspectives on heartache.
Saturday morning, start the day with a welcoming Sunrise Ceremony at the John Snake Memorial Grounds in Rama starting at 5:30 a.m. followed by a Community Breakfast at 7am. Feel the sun’s warmth stay with you through the day as the festival embarks on a series of discussions from a variety of artists and storytellers.
Children’s Circle pairs Anishinaabe author-illustrator Bridget George (It’s a Mitig!) with author Lynda Partridge (Lillian Mystery Series), a member of the Algonquins Pikwakanagan First Nation, in conversation about their books for young readers.
The session titled Justice Now features Christa Big Canoe, an Anishinabek women, mother and lawyer from Georgina Island First Nation. Christa has been Lead Commission Counsel to the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. She passionately advocates for Indigenous women and children.
From Stories to Films pairs Christa Couture with Rama First Nation artist Keesic Douglas. Douglas utilizes photographer, video and performance focusing on themes of exploring history, identity, representation, and the environment through an Indigenous perspective.
The final session of the day pairs two incredible authors in conversation. Julie Pellissier-Lush is a Mi’kmaw storyteller, photographer, actor, drummer, best-selling author and the first Indigenous Poet Laureate for PEI. Through her books, songs, poetry and other creative pursuits, Julie celebrates and shares the powerful stories of the Mi’lmaq on PEI. Joining her on stage is award-winning writer and photographer, Thomas King. A Companion of the Order of Canada and the recipient of a National Aboriginal Achievement Award, his critically acclaimed, bestselling books include Medicine River, The Back of the Turtle (winner of the Governor General’s Literary Award for Fiction), The Inconvenient Indian (winner of the RBC Taylor Prize), Indians on Vacation, the poetry 77 Fragments of a Familiar Ruin, and more.
See Arts Orillia’s website for a complete schedule. All events are free of charge! Gathering is made possible through the generous support of private donors along with federal, provincial and corporate funders.
More InfoPhotos by Sean Rees
Where to Stay
Stay in Rama First Nation and explore the beautiful setting of the region. Black River Wilderness Park is a family campground owned and operated by the Chippewas of Rama First Nation. The park is situated along the Black River with tent camping, RV Sites, yurts, cabins and more available. Paddle the Black River, hike along the interpretive trails and learn more about the Indigenous culture of the region. Be one of the first to enjoy the season in over 180 acres of wilderness.
Casino Rama Resort offers relaxation with a luxurious hotel and amenities including dining, spa, gaming and entertainment.
Stay at an Orillia hotel for cozy accommodations after a full day of learning and exploring. Orillia’s hotels are situated within 15 minutes from each of the festival’s various event locations.
Visit Rama First Nation
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