Knowledge is Pow Wow

Youth are leading a new project, Knowledge is Pow Wow, that will explore religious pluralism and social justice through inclusive conversation and creative expression in Edmonton.

Spearheaded by Cory Nicotine, the group of young adults from Edmonton’s downtown communities will hear from leaders representing Indigenous, Catholic, Jewish and Muslim faiths and culture. Over four meetings the 12-30 year-olds will share food, stories, culture and personal stories to break down barriers of suspicion or misunderstanding. The series will culminate in a performance showcasing the learning and hip hop as a vehicle to creatively express identity.

Supported by an Inspirit Foundation Grant and the City of Edmonton, Elders, young-people and community leaders from indigenous and non-indigenous backgrounds will have opportunities to build meaningful connections. They will discuss real strategies for overcoming racism that causes social tensions between spiritual and cultural communities in the city.

“If take away the lines of cultures and religions and see each other just plainly for what we’re born as: “human beings”, we will see that we are the same, laughter sounds the same in every language.” – Cory Nicotine

All of these are at the Boyle Street Renaissance Plaza, 9538-103A Ave, from 3-5pm
Fri. Feb 20 – Knowledge Circle on Indigenous Spirituality
Fri. Mar 20 – Knowledge Circle on Catholicism
Fri. Apr 17 – Knowledge Circle on Judaism
Fri. May 22 – Knowledge Circle on Islam

Milner Library Theatre 3-5pm
Sat. June 13 – Knowledge is Pow Wow Festival
Each day participants will have the chance to contribute to a collective rap and a collaborative art project. Plus, free food!

Cory was inspired to start the Knowledge is Pow Wow series after being involved in cultural learning on Manitoulin Island and in Tanzania. Motivated by a desire to learn, he wanted everyone to be able to learn with him. The first two panels were about Idle No More and the Edmonton municipal election, creating a conversation that kept youth at the table as important stake holders.

Read the Edmonton Journal article for more on Cory’s contribution.