OAC Community Gathering - November 5, 2026
Event Overview
The Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition is delighted to inform you that the annual Indigenous Community Gathering is underway. This year we celebrate the OAC's 25th Anniversary in addition to celebrating may aspects of the Ottawa Indigenous community in Ottawa. Please join us as we celebrate the Ottawa Indigenous community and highlight some of the work being done by the OAC with our partners and our member organizations.
Logistics
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Date: Thursday, November 5th, 2026
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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
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: Building Urban Indigenous Ottawa
Come and help us celebrate the Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition's 25th Anniversary!
Purpose of the Gathering
The OAC Community Gathering is designed to recognize and build on the collaborations and relationship-building between Indigenous community members and partners – all designed to improve the quality of lives for Indigenous people living in Ottawa. The Gathering also provides us with a time to stop and reflect on what we have collectively accomplished together and what we will continue to work on.
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.
● Celebration of the OAC's 25th anniversary.
Check Back Soon!
Come back closer to the date for more information about the program, event booklet, Elders, speakers, special guests, and special performers.
Community Gathering 2025 Photos
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:
