This coming weekend, we invite you to join us at a Hollow Water Community Gathering to TALK, SHARE, MEET, and LEARN.

Camp Manitowabi is happening from August 23 to August 26, 2012 at Raven’s Creek in Hollow Water First Nation. Co-organized by the Wilderness Committee, the event aims to bring all people together to build their personal and community networks of allies. There will be sessions about self-reliance (including making jam and canning), community gardening and ecotourism opportunities. You can participate in ceremonies, learn from Elders, and exchange cross-cultural ideas. Be part of open discussions about community-driven land use plans. This is an opportunity to share your skills, and to learn something new.

This is a no-charge, family-friendly event. We ask only that you bring your personal camping equipment, some food or supplies to share (if you can), and a willingness to lend a hand with the day-to-day work.

Participants will need to bring tents and camping gear. There is plenty of room at Raven’s Creek. There is no running water for showers, but swimming is encouraged in the Wanipigow River, which flows past the site. Washroom facilities consist of outhouses.

Children are welcome – even encouraged! There will be some planned kids activities. You are welcome to leave age-appropriate kids with program leaders, at your own discretion. Otherwise parents are responsible for their children at all times.

No pets, please. No drugs or alcohol.

If you wish to participate in sweat ceremonies, men should bring shorts, women should bring long skirts and long sleeved tops (all natural fabrics). Please also supply some tobacco. Elders will provide further instruction.

We will be preparing meals together. Please supply what you can from the list below:

• Rice (any kind)
• Potatoes
• Wild meat or fish
• Tofu - any kind
• Carrots
• Onions
• Milk
• Butter
• Soy milk
• Cereal
• Granola bars
• Eggs
• Tofu scrambler
• Canned tomatoes
• Corn
• Flour
• Sugar/honey/other sweetener
• Lunch meat
• Garden veggies
• Fruit (for eating and jam making)
• Crab apples/berries, etc.
• Clean jars with lids
• Cucumbers for pickling
• Pickling spices - dill

If you have anything else to bring, please let us know, so we can plan accordingly. The remainder will be supplied by the coordinating organizations.

This is an opportunity to support communities coming together and taking a stand for traditional land. Donations are welcome and will be used for food, travel subsidies, honourariums and supplies. We make this event free so anyone can attend, regardless of income. Your donations make this possible.

This gathering is co-organized by the Boreal Forest Network, Anishinabe Turtle Island Protectors, The Kookums of Hollow Water and the Wilderness Committee.

For more information visit our website, or email contactmb@wildernesscommittee.org.