Program description: Within Indigenous communities across Turtle Island, there were thousands of beliefs about death, loss and grieving before European contact. While such beliefs still differ within tribes, communities, and families, there are still commonalities within Indigenous spiritual traditions and understandings. We come into this world not to stay, but to go. At Indigenous funerals, some four days long, you may be told, “Do not let tears fall on the body” or be offered clothing of the deceased person. Why? We will discuss this and more. Some of the wisdom may resonate with you. There will be door prizes!
Program Leader: Bruce Giizhig Barry
Bruce Giizhig Barry is a prominent Anishinaabe/Ojibwe Indigenous visual artist, writer, screenwriter, university lecturer, filmmaker and member of the Sandy Bay Ojibway Nation. Known for robust visual narratives (of note, his art on the poster for the Clint Eastwood film Indian Horse), his work is in private and public collections internationally. Like many others, he sees his art as part of the resistance against attempts to extinguish traditional peoples and their worldview. Now in his sixth decade, he travels frequently to Indigenous communities teaching and sharing art, and is a ceremonialist, pipe holder and traditional teacher.
Number of sessions:
Dates and time of session: Thursday, September 26 from 1:30pm – 3:00pm.
Program Location: Sooke Library Multipurpose Room (in-person only).
To register, please make your request to Sooke Region Lifelong Learning by email: sookeregionlifelonglearning@gmail.com
Sooke Region Lifelong Learning is a volunteer organization offering educational programs and workshops for adults in the Sooke region. Based on the Elder College model, we provide stimulating and enjoyable learning environments which address the unique and diverse interests of participants.
