The Splatsin are bringing together communities to discuss domestic violence.
Reclaiming Circles of Wellness runs Oct. 21 and 22 and the conference will allow indigenous community members and staff to share their knowledge and experience of domestic violence.
“Indigenous speakers and facilitators are coming to help support this process and share their expertise,” said Jessica Kent, Splatsin health wellness worker.
“The conference hopes to bring this issue to the forefront as a priority for indigenous communities to address by drawing on their strengths.”
The conference will be held at the Splatsin Community Centre.
A workshop and lunch for staff is being facilitated by the Ending Violence Association and football player J.R. LaRose from noon to 4 p.m. Oct. 21.
“That evening, everyone is welcome to join us for a feast, opening ceremony and inspirational talk from LaRose from 5 to 8 p.m.,” said Kent.
“On Oct. 22 at 10 a.m., there will be a motivational talk from Daryll LaBoucan, education and cultural co-ordinator with the Kamloops Aboriginal Friendship Society.”
After lunch, there will be workshops for elders, men, women and youth. Facilitators participating in the workshops include respectful relationships facilitator Rose Miller, Dr. Paul Gross and elders from the Dude’s Club, Terriea Harris, with Battered Women’s Support Services, and LaBoucan.
The conference is free and meals are provided. There will also be support services available including child care, elders, massage, yoga and support agencies.
“I have found that family violence has impacted almost everyone I work with at some point in their lives,” said Kent.
“Due to issues, such as colonization, residential schools, the ‘60s scoop, and the reserve system, domestic violence impacts indigenous people in unique ways. The mainstream approach to dealing with this issue is not effective in indigenous communities, which is why we need to come together to develop our own approach.”
To register, contact Splatsin Health Services at 250-838-9538.