Northern College Hosts Great Moon Gathering

**NORTHERN COLLEGE NEWS RELEASE**

Northern College’s Timmins Campus played host to an annual tradition this month, as hundreds took part in the 28th annual Omushkego Education Great Moon Gathering.

Created in 1991 by the Mushkegowuk Council, the Gathering aims to bring Indigenous educators together for seminars, learning opportunities and cultural discourse that span from early childhood to higher education.

“The GMG is professional development for the Omushkego Education – Mushkegowuk Council,” stated Trudy Wilson, Northern College’s Manager of Indigenous Services and Initiatives. “This is important as it allows all those responsible for education an opportunity to come together as one to plan, develop and reconnect with what has been happening since the last GMG.”

Northern College is proud to support an event that highlights the importance of education within Indigenous communities while inspiring discussion about difficult socio-economic issues, the importance of cultural heritage and pride in identity.

“The College recognizes the importance of facilitating this great event,” stated Lucille Lachance, event facilitator and Advising Assistant at Northern College. “This ensure that the educators of the indigenous school boards continue to have professional development that reinforces the need to enhance the Cree language and culture in their educational curriculum.”

Promoting universal understanding alongside open and accessible education is a corner stone of Northern College’s mandate.

“It is important for the college to host and facilitate events like these,” stated Wilson. “By supporting events like this, it shows that Northern College is invested in Indigenous education, working toward truth and reconciliation, and furthers our aspiration of becoming the Indigenous College of choice.”

Northern College has played host to the event for the past four years, helping grow attendance to well over 300 participants.

“Northern College is pleased to have once again been selected as the host venue for the Great Moon Gathering,” stated Northern College President Fred Gibbons. “Events such as this serve to strengthen the important relationship we have with our Indigenous partners and reinforces the important role that Northern College plays as a community hub for learning.”