Healing Week: A Week of Connection, Healing & Culture

Over the course of eight days, our community came together to embrace healing, culture, and connection. Through talking circles, traditional practices, and wellness activities, we created spaces for voices to be heard, traditions to be honored, and well-being to be nurtured. The impact of this week was profound, and the overwhelming response from participants has set the stage for long-term programs that will continue to support mental health, cultural identity, and community resilience.

Community-Driven Growth: A Recap of Our Week

Day 1: Community Talking Circle

Nine participants gathered for an open and supportive discussion. The need for more talking circles was voiced, leading to the introduction of monthly community talking circles to foster ongoing dialogue and healing.

Day 2: Snow Day & Reflection

Due to inclement weather a snow day allowed for the community to recharge. Events were rescheduled, but the opportunity to rest was much appreciated by all.

Day 3: Sacred Fire & Men's Group

Community members visited the sacred fire throughout the day, offering prayers and creating tobacco ties. Seven men attended the men's group, highlighting the demand for consistent men’s gatherings, which will now be held monthly.

Day 4: Youth Night

With an incredible turnout of 21 youth (ages 4+), the evening was filled with energy and engagement, emphasizing the value of providing lasting opportunities for youth to connect and grow.

Day 5: Drumming, Rattling & Mandala Art

A powerful moment unfolded as a drum built by community members was awakened for the first time. The event attracted participants of all ages, leading to the upcoming launch of a Women’s & Two-Spirit Drum Group and an Elders Drum Group in February. Additionally, overwhelming interest in the Mandala activity led to an increased capacity, welcoming 14 participants.

Day 6: Community Feast & Crafting Stations

A well-attended community feast voiced the need for more frequent gatherings. Our crafting stations for the evening were fully booked, with 20 participants engaging in dream catcher and medicine bag making. The highly anticipated moose call-making session was rescheduled for February 20th due to illness, with an expanded capacity to meet demand.

Days 7 & 8: Reiki & Closing Talking Circle

Over these two days, 11 individuals received Reiki sessions, embracing the benefits of energy healing. Additionally, nine participants took part in a closing talking circle, reflecting on the week’s experiences and sharing insights on their healing journeys.

Sustaining Wellness: What Comes Next?

Throughout the week, drop-in therapy was available, ensuring accessible mental health support for all community members. To guide future programming, we conducted a community wellness survey, receiving an impressive 53 responses. These insights will shape upcoming initiatives focused on mental health, cultural revitalization, and overall well-being.

A Heartfelt Thank You

I want to extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who helped make Healing Week a success. From the facilitators who guided us through planning and leading events, ceremonies, and cooked meals, to those who volunteered their time, to the community members who participated with open hearts, and to the community crafters who provided the beautiful giveaways, your contributions made this event truly special.

A big thank you to the Pabineau Health Center staff, whose unwavering support made it all possible. Your help behind the scenes—allowing me to bounce ideas and receive feedback, listening to all my ideas and plans for weeks, and offering assistance every step of the way—was invaluable. I feel incredibly supported by my team, and I’m proud to be part of such a strong and dedicated group.

Seeing the community come together in such a meaningful way to engage, learn, and heal has filled my heart with gratitude. It’s moments like these that remind me of the power of unity, culture, and wellness. I am excited for the future and look forward to creating even more spaces where we can come together to heal and grow as a community.

Thank you for making Healing Week a reality! Let’s continue this journey of connection, support, and growth together.

Written By: Brittany Gray