Trent University will welcome Autumn Peltier, internationally recognized Anishinaabe water-rights advocate from Wiikwemikoong Unceded Territory, as the opening keynote speaker at the 49th Annual Elders & Traditional Peoples Gathering, taking place November 7 to 9 across Trent’s Durham GTA and Peterborough campuses. 

“The Elders Gathering is a place where strong Indigenous voices are amplified and celebrated, and a space where the wisdom of our Elders meets the energy of a new generation,” says Dr. Dawn Memee Lavell Harvard, director of the First Peoples House of Learning (FPHL) at Trent University.

“This year’s theme, Echoing Our Elders, honours the continuation of teachings, stories, and songs that carry our cultures forward and remind us of our responsibilities to one another and to the land.” 

Appointed the chief water commissioner for the Anishinabek Nation in 2019, Peltier has brought global attention to the fight for clean drinking water in First Nations communities, addressing the United Nations and inspiring a generation of youth activists. She has been nominated three times for the International Children’s Peace Prize for her advocacy on environmental and Indigenous rights. 

A weekend of reflection, learning, and celebration
Hosted by the FPHL, the Elders & Traditional Peoples Gathering is one of the longest-running events of its kind in Canada. Each year, it brings together Elders, Knowledge Keepers, students and community members for workshops, keynotes, and cultural experiences that celebrate Indigenous resurgence and contemporary leadership. 

Joining Peltier as feature speakers at the Gathering are: 

• Dr. Jeannette Corbiere Lavell (Hon.), Anishinaabekwe from Wikwemikong First Nation, lifelong advocate for Indigenous women’s rights and a member of the Order of Canada. 

• Elder Claudette Commanda, Algonquin Anishinaabe from Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nation, chancellor of the University of Ottawa and champion for First Nations languages, culture, and education.  

• Keri Tākao, Māori language teacher and cultural advocate from Aotearoa (New Zealand) will close the Gathering. 

Something for everyone: workshops, art, and performance
The three-day event will feature a vibrant program of cultural experiences and community connection, including: 

• Hands-on workshops on topics such as sealskin pin making, cornbread baking, and smoked fish preparation. 

• A vendor marketplace featuring traditional crafts and contemporary art. 

• The launch of Dr. Jackson Pind’s new book, Students by Day: Colonialism and Resistance at the Curve Lake Indian Day School. 

• Vibrant performances, including Who Will Save the Night Sky?, an interactive solo work by Philip Geller (Red River Métis, Ashkenazi), co-presented by Nozhem First Peoples Performance Space and Public Energy Performing Arts. 

Visit the Elders Gathering website to get your tickets and explore the full schedule of speakers, workshops, and presentations. Tickets will also be available at the door (cash only). Admission is $15 for Friday at Trent Durham and $30 for the full Peterborough weekend, while Elders, postsecondary students (with valid ID), and youth under 18 attend free. The Gathering is made possible through the support of Bell and other generous sponsors.