Outline “Moccasin Game Workshop” June 2, 3, 4, 5, 2009

Throughout many meetings and consultations with the community Elders, the Elders identified the youth were losing their history, culture and traditions. The elders wanted to develop a foundation of knowledge for the youth and the community members. They also identified that the language retention in the community was minimal amongst the youth and their identity as an Anishinaabe person.

It was a result from various dialogue with the Elders from the Messages Project, that this Workshop had to take place. There are many aspects that were to be implemented which are; Compile historical information by bringing in elders that know the knowledge of the Moccasin Game.
The data that has been collected in the SGEI/NFN will develop a kit used for instructional tools for the schools, communities and various audiences that want to know and learn about the moccasin Game.

General Purpose:
In partnership with Seven Generations School & Naicatchewenin First Nation we would like to propose in having a 4 day workshop to teach the fundamentals, ceremony, songs, & rules of the moccasin game to teach young and old alike, and by doing so continue this proud tradition.

Who:
We would like to invite our own elders along with a few visiting elders to teach this game throughout the four days in different intervals.

Where:
We would like to have this event hosted by Naicatchewenin First Nation in either the roundhouse/GYM or even outdoors weather permitting.

Agenda:
Day 1- Ceremonial purposes of the game, certain songs used, history & origin
Day 2- Teach Fundamentals of the game, and possibly making game kits.
Day 3- Form teams and play under supervision from instructors, practicing songs and enhancing skills
Day 4- Have and open Moccasin Game tournament inviting teams from other First Nations to come and part take in the Tourney. (We could have a canteen to help offset some of the costs).

Also entry fee

For Information, contact either;

Brian Smith - Seven Generations Education Institute - 807-274-2796

or

Gary Smith - Naicatchewenin First Nation Band Office - 807-486-3407