Conference to explore residential school effects

THE Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs is inviting all Manitobans, aboriginal and non-aboriginal, to a conference to explore the inter-generational effects of residential schools.

The Hidden Legacy, to run Feb. 22-24 at the Winnipeg Convention Centre, will help participants understand the impact of the Indian Residential Schools on children of survivors. It is the first national inter-generational conference and workshop, and admission is free.

Keynote speakers include: Eduardo Duran, "Healing the Soul Wound: Moving Beyond Trauma;" Dr. Gabor Mate, direct participation workshops; Elijah Harper, "Breaking the Silence/Breaking Barriers;" Dr. Lori Haskell, "Disrupted Attachments: A Social Context Trauma Framework and the Lives of Aboriginal Peoples in Canada;" and Joseph Pitawanakwat, "Traditional Medicine/Embracing Gifts."

Interactive workshops will explore the effects of The Hidden Legacy in terms of prison populations, school dropouts, the increase in the number of single mothers, gang membership, substance abuse, family abuse and moving beyond trauma.

Organizers suggest registering early. Participants can pre-register and pick up their conference packages Feb. 21 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Delta Winnipeg, 350 St. Mary Ave., ballroom foyer on the second floor.

For more information, please contact Jennifer Wood at 1-877-626-6713 or email amc@gotoregister.ca.

Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition February 19, 2011 H3