The We Speak! Gala for the Squamish Language
Last month I wrote about my work with Kwi Awt Stelmexw in support of Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) Language revitalization. This week I am shamelessly promoting a special event happening later this week: the We Speak! Fundraising Gala is this Friday March 11th in North Vancouver. If you are nearby, join us for what promises to be a wonderful evening of celebration of the Skwxwú7mesh Language. All proceeds will go to the Language Revitalization Fund, a scholarship program for students of the Skwxwú7mesh Language.
Hosted by comedian Charlie Demers
Many in Vancouver know just how funny Charlie Demers is from his performances on national radio and television, his best-selling books, or his appearances at local social justice events. We are excited to have him as our host for the evening, and I am especially looking forward to hearing some language-related jokes!
Keynote by Maori Language activist Hana O’Regan
We are also very excited to welcome our keynote speaker, Hana O’Regan, all the way from Aotearoa (New Zealand). Hana is a tireless activist for Maori Language revitalization with an impressive résumé that includes university leadership positions and posts on national advisory boards. She is currently a New Zealand Fellow at the International Centre for Language Revitalisation, and has recently taken up the position of General Manager Oranga – Wellbeing for her tribal organization.
Great food, great prizes, great times!
The Gala will also feature a delicious five course Coast Salish feast by a chef from the Squamish Nation Community, a raffle for special prizes, and an impressive silent auction full of great gifts, event tickets, local services, and beautiful art. Follow Kwi Awt Stelmexw on Facebook to get a sneak peak of some of the wonderful gifts up for grabs!
Event details
Date/Time: Friday, March 11, 2016 from 6pm – 9pm (doors at 5:30)
Location: Chief Joe Mathias Centre, 100 Capilano Road, North Vancouver
Tickets: $50 per individual ticket, $375 for reserved tables of 10.
More information and ticket purchases here.
I hope you will join me and Kwi Awt Stelmexw to celebrate the Skwxwú7mesh Language and to honour those who are working hard for this important cultural revival movement!
