The annual gathering of the Innu Nation’s 2024 seniors is taking place for the first time in Naskapian land. The event opened this Tuesday morning with a tribute to the late Alexandre McKenzie, from Matimekush.
About 300 people from nine Innu communities in Quebec and two in Labrador landed yesterday by train and plane in the Schefferville area for this large gathering. It also hosts a delegation of the Atikamekw Nation. The chefs and several other leaders join the festivities.
Many conferences, training workshops, religious ceremonies, discussion tables and shows are on the program over 10 days. Each year, the gathering offers opportunities for reunion and to reconnect with certain traditions.
175 tents on an exceptional site
The organizers chose the cultural site of Ka Mamunuiitananuch, in the middle of nature. This burnt forest site is particularly special, with easy access to water and the forest that is starting to grow back. Bushes loaded with blueberries, tea and medicinal plants abound around the site.
The Elders gathering has been organized for a month. More than 175 tents have been set up, with several amenities for the comfort and safety of the Elders.
This is the 28th Gathering of Seniors, which will continue until September 4. The 2023 one took place at Unamen Shipu in Basse-Côte-Nord.