Announcement: The 2009 Manitowapow Aboriginal Writers Series
The 2009 Manitowapow Aboriginal Writers Series
Sponsored by Aqua Books and the Centre for Creative Writing and Oral Cultures at the University of Manitoba
Manitowapow means “the narrows of the Great Spirit” and is the original Cree name for Manitoba. The name honours the beautiful and sacred sounds that emerge when waves hit the loose surface rocks on the north shore in the narrows of Lake Manitoba, sounds that traditional peoples believed came from a huge drum beaten by Gichi Manitou (The Great Spirit). In this vein, we are calling together some of Manitoba’s best Aboriginal writers to share with the people of Manitowapow work that both comes from and is about this place.
Featuring a mixture of experienced and emerging writers, this series promises rich experiences for audiences. Hosted by 2010 Aqua Books Writer-in-Residence David Robertson (author of The Life of Helen Betty Osborne andthe upcoming four-graphic novel series 7 Generations), each evening will feature approximately five artists presenting their work. Also, as an added bonus, at the end of each night will feature a short panel discussion on Aboriginal experiences of both writing in and about Manitowapow.
Schedule:
January 24, 2009, 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.
Stories of Manitowapow
For many Native communities in Manitowapow, winter is the time of storytelling. Embodying and reflecting the collective knowledges of the people, these stories are vessels of history, creativity, and experience told to recognize the beautiful struggles available in community and creation. In this spirit, stories both historical, philosophical and humourous will be shared by and with the people of Manitowapow.
February 24, 2009, 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.
Poems of Manitowapow
Words are the lifeblood of Indigenous life. Who says what and about whom makes up a large part of the collective expression of Aboriginal peoples, whether in song, prayer, gossip, or text message. One of the most vibrant expressions of this use of language is through love. Consider for a moment why, for instance, Winnipeg has the largest Aboriginal community in Canada. Other themes addressed in poetic forms include politics, representation, family, and culture. On this night, come and hear some of the strongest and sensitive Aboriginal poets in Manitowapow describe and condense language to its barest and vibrant potentials and possibilities.
March 23, 2009, 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.
Honouring Manitowapow
The unique land of Manitowapow is a crucial part of the experiences of Aboriginal peoples of this territory. Considering the diversity of weather, the richness of the soil, and the beauty of the water, one understands why. In addition, the introduction of modern-day pollution, urban sprawl, and projects such as hydroelectric damming and mining has created new, complex experiences for Aboriginal communities of Manitowapow, many of whom most directly feel the impacts of these changes. On this night, the ongoing critical relationship between humankind and the earth in Manitowapow will be honoured and debated. As a special added feature, 2010 Aqua Books Writer-in-Residence David Robertson will also be launching Book 1: Stone, the first graphic novel of his graphic novel series 7 Generations.
April 25, 2009, 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.
The Roots of Truth and Reconciliation in Manitowapow
In June 2009, the first national commemoration event of the Indian Residential School Truth and Reconciliation Commission will take place in Winnipeg, the heart of Manitowapow. At this event, survivors and citizens effected by the residential school legacy will join together in the spirit of sharing and healing to engage the long historical impacts of this dark period in Canadian history. But, what is “Truth”? What is “Reconciliation”? Come and join together with Aboriginal writers struggling with these concepts in their work and see what answers emerge.
I will be hosting the events, except for the event in March.
The Writers Series is being planned by me, Beatrice Mosionier, and Niigonwedom Sinclair.