Medicine Hat Public Library to host tepee gathering for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

“I think it’s really significant,” Mercer said.

She said the tepees will also give people an opportunity to experience the space firsthand, rather than simply seeing tepees at a powwow or on television.

“This is your opportunity to come out and sit in a tepee, come ask about how we made them,” she said.

Mercer says the event is also about creating a welcoming space for people to learn and share knowledge.

She describes the library as the “kitchen in the community,” where everyone is welcome to come in, sit down and talk.

“I think it’s a good space because we’re all learning; [and] I’m willing to share the knowledge that I do have,” Mercer said.

Elder Charlie Fox of the Kainai Nation will also be at the event, with remarks scheduled for 6 p.m.

Mercer says having an elder present is important because learning and sharing knowledge are ongoing parts of reconciliation.

“I think it’s important to have an elder with us when we do these things because for us,” she said.

Visitors will be invited into the tepees to take part in crafts, ask questions or share the space.

Mercer says the goal is to make the experience welcoming for everyone.

“I’m very approachable,” Mercer said.

“We’ll just be sharing space and holding space for one another and learning a new craft or just come and chat with us, but everybody’s welcome.”

Also taking place on Wednesday is a public gathering by the Miywasin Friendship Centre at Medicine Hat College.

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READ: Medicine Hat invited to gather for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

by Jett Schwaier

Medicine Hat Public Library to host tepee gathering for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

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