As part of a new step toward reconciliation, an Indigenous artist is inviting Port Coquitlam and the Tri-Cities region to try their hand at weaving while sharing bannock, tea and stories.
Priscilla Omulo with the PoCo Arts Council is hosting a workshop this weekend to teach residents how to create art using sustainable Cedar bark.
She's joining forces with Wondrous Tree Fellowship to run the free gathering — titled "Weaving Our Story Towards Reconciliation" — at the Kinsmen Hall (2175 Coquitlam Ave.) on Sunday afternoon (Aug. 28).
It's also a part of BC Culture Days, to which Omulo is an ambassador.
The Tsartlip First Nation member (outside of Saanich) explains the weaving workshop hopes to "encourage everyone to think about their actions towards reconciliation," adding Cedar weaving can provide a cultural and historical perspective on Indigenous peoples.
Participants are set to create hearts with the Cedar bark, which will be part of a larger artwork, according to the event's description.
The piece, when complete, is set to represent and celebrate the community's spirit and strive to further achieve reconciliation.
As well, a short film about Omulo's project will be featured on the BC Culture Days website in time for Sept. 30 — National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day.
The weaving session is scheduled for Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m.
For more information and registration, you can visit the gathering's EventBrite page.
