All tables were full at Nanaimo’s Beban Park Social Centre on Tuesday, December 9 as hundreds of Nuu-chah-nulth-aht gathered for holiday festivities and a delicious turkey dinner.
Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council Vice-President Les Doiron along with Executive Director Florence Wylie welcomed the people on behalf of the NTC. They reminded the people that, even though they are there in the spirit of fun and family, there are those that are struggling and need prayers and good thoughts.
Children played freely as the adults visited with each other. There was a photo booth that was popular with young families and youth. Tables were set up for arts and crafts for the children. For the adults there was a cedar bark crafting table and henna art.
Some NTC departments set up information tables at the gathering, including Usma and Teechuktl’s harm reduction services.
Several Christmas door prizes were won before the night wound down.
This month the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council is hosting five Urban Gatherings in Victoria, Vancouver, Nanaimo, Port Alberni and Campbell River. Next up is a dinner celebration this evening at Port Alberni’s Italian Hall (4065 Sixth Ave.), followed by the final Urban Gathering in Campbell River on Thursday at the Thunderbird Hall (1420 Wewaikum Road).
