OAC Community Gathering - November 6, 2025
Greetings! Kwey Kwey! Wahchay! Waaciye! Aaniin! Ainngai! Tunngasugit! Tanshi! Tánsi! Ninaskomitin! Nooleelūndam éel páyan! Iyuskin! Kuwa! Wotziye! Pee-piihtikweek! Boozhoo! Shé:kon! Gilakas’la! Kii-te-daas a! Wa.é ák.wé! Sgëno!
This Year's Theme:
All our Relations: Caring and Learning from each other
(Building Urban Indigenous Community)
Event Overview
We are delighted to inform you that planning for the annual Indigenous Community Forum hosted by the Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition and the UAS-Ottawa Steering Committee is underway. This event aims to celebrate the Indigenous community in Ottawa, foster meaningful discussions and gather your invaluable input as we navigate the future of our community initiatives.
Logistics
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Date: Thursday, November 6th, 2025
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Time: 5PM - 8:30PM EST
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Venue: Ottawa Convention and Events Centre
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Address: 200 Coventry Road, Ottawa ON
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Parking: The venue offers free underground parking, while outdoor parking directly in front of the main entrance is paid only.
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Public Transit: O.C. Transpo #9 Hurdman and #9 Downtown
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Cost: FREE
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Registration: Required and will be open closer to the event date
Purpose of the Gathering
This serves as a gathering for collaboration and relationship-building among community members and partners. Together, we aim to explore ways to enhance opportunities for our children and youth and ensure positive outcomes for the Aboriginal community in Ottawa.
What to Expect
An Indigenous Experience, an Indigenous Worldview:
● A traditional opening with the big drum and Elders.
● An Indigenous themed three-course dinner.
● Live entertainment from Indigenous artists and performers.
● Key messages from our special guests.
● A presentation from the OAC co-chairs on what has been accomplished over the last year and plans moving forward.
● Time to honour, acknowledge, and recognize community members and partners.
● Informative displays for the Inuit Violence Against Women Shelter, Family Healing Lodge, and much more!
● Opportunity to learn about the OAC organizations at their information booths.
Program
Below is the agenda for the 2025 Community Gathering, an
evening of celebration, learning, and recognizing the strength of Ottawa Indigenous community.
Event Elders
The OAC is grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with several Elders from the Ottawa community. During the Community Gathering, six Elders are graciously offering opening and closing prayers or remarks for the event. Their biographies are provided below.
Speakers & Special Guests
We are excited to have the following speakers and special guests join us at this year's community gathering.
Cultural Performers
Through music, dance, and more, Indigenous performers remind us of the deep roots, strength, and vibrant spirit that connect and sustain the Ottawa Indigenous community.
Honouring Community Members
Every year the Indigenous community honours those who work for and with the Indigenous community. These individuals contribute in many ways to the health and growth of the Ottawa Indigenous community and in many ways embody the theme: Caring and Learning from Each Other (Building the Urban Indigenous Community).
A list will be provided here following the event.
Special Displays: Highlighting the Impactful work of the OAC
The following special displays will enable attendees to learn more about the OAC initiatives which aim to further support Indigenous people living in Ottawa. There will be opportunity to explore these displays and gain a deeper understanding of the OAC's mission and the vital role it played in enhancing the well-being of Indigenous peoples in Ottawa. These featured exhibits included:
OAC Community Gathering Booklet
Check back soon to view the 2025 Booklet.
