Knowledge is Pow Wow is a youth-led project based in Edmonton which aims to increase understanding of pluralism and respect for different faiths, beliefs and spiritual traditions through conversation and creative expression.
In First Nations tradition, ‘pow wow’ means a gathering of people for the purpose of trade; today the term is used to describe different types of gatherings that bring people together for reflection and conversation. Playing on this concept, iHuman Youth Society will mentor a team of young adults from their downtown community to plan and facilitate a series of conversations in spring and summer 2015. They will reach out to peers across Edmonton from indigenous and non-indigenous backgrounds, particularly those identified as ‘at-risk.’
Edmonton's Corey Nicotine is one of the young leaders behind Knowledge is Pow Wow (Image courtesy of the Edmonton Journal).
Catalyzed by an Inspirit Pluralism Grant, the Knowledge is Pow Wow team will facilitate open and meaningful conversations between young people, Elders and community leaders in Edmonton through mutual sharing of food, stories and personal experiences. They will discuss ways they can overcome the racism, prejudice and discrimination that cause social tensions between spiritual and cultural communities in the city (recently evidenced by the vandalization of a gurdwara), and enhance Edmontonians' understanding of the city’s growing diversity of beliefs. The project will culminate in a performance or showcase that incorporates learning from the sessions.
This creative and innovative approach to community engagement is a hallmark of iHuman Youth Society’s approach in helping young people in Edmonton overcome barriers to education, employment and full civic participation. Inspirit Foundation is excited to support Knowledge is Pow Wow because of the project’s focus on encouraging participants to engage with differences in a positive way.
Read the Edmonton Journal article to find out how the project has impacted the life of one Edmontonian in particular.
