KWE! Festival
Free - Place Jean-Béliveau
Artistic performances, conferences, demonstrations and exchanges!
Ongoing activities throughout the festival
The following activities are free and ongoing. The schedule is as follows: Friday June 14 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday June 15 and Sunday June 16 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Pick a colored heart in our garden to support one of the important causes for Indigenous Peoples. Choose either a purple heart, to raise awareness about Joyce’s Principle, the orange heart, to honor the residential school children who could never return home, or the red heart, to remember the missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls.
It will allow you to meet representatives from each of the Nations, learn more about their cultures and knowledge, and engage with them.
Meetings with the Inuit who will present a qamutik (a traditional sled), a collection of artworks and historical items, as well as photographic and television archives about qimmiit (dogs) and the Inuit people's relationship with them.
Come and meet the Wendat and Kanien'kehá:ka peoples.
An interactive giant screen with a map to locate First Nations and Inuit communities in Quebec.
Our shop where you can buy handmade unique and authentic art pieces, manuals, greeting cards, clothing and more!
Explore a varied selection of works by Indigenous authors, as well as children’s literature focused on Indigenous peoples.
June 15 - Saturday
Moira-Uashteskun Bacon : 11:30 - 12:30
Angela Amarualik : 12:30 - 13:30
Georges Pisimopeo : 13:30 - 14:30
June 16 - Sunday
Angela Amarualik : 11:00 - 12:00
Georges Pisimopeo : 12:00 à 13:00
A space dedicated to creative activities for children, parents and people of all ages interested in creating a pocket inspired by the Medicine Wheel teachings. Animated by Anishinabe representatives, this is the place to learn about the skills of indigenous peoples as well as the meaning of certain symbols related to the knowledge and cultural identity of Indigenous Peoples.
This space is dedicated to demonstrations of know-hows. 5 different stations to exchange with our artisans who have acquired their skills and knowledge from generation to generation. Meet with the our cultural bearers from the Innu Nation (beading), Mi’gmak Nation (ash threshing and ash basket-making), Atikamekw Nation (birch bark canoe and basket-making), Anishinaabe Nation (hide tanning) and Cree Nation (snowshoe-making).
game meat or fish traditionally hunted, caught, prepared by Indigenous peoples are cooked on a wood fire and explanations are shared with you.
ITQ presents the multiple tourism destinations and facets for everyone to know!
Participate every day in a new series of enriching activities presented by a different organization. On June 14, make dream sticks with Dr. Stanley Vollant in preparation for the Puamun Meshkenu Walk. On June 15, discover the new web platform Myths and Realities about Indigenous Peoples and take part in various activities presented by the Tshakapesh Institute. On June 16, Wapikoni Mobile will showcase excerpts from some of their productions. You will also have the opportunity to discuss with filmmakers who have contributed to Wapikoni's success over the past 20 years.
Off-site events
Some unmissable events also take place outside Place Jean-Béliveau and are offered through collaborations.
June 13, 2024, 5:00 PM
Grand théâtre de Québec
Free
June 14, 2024, 11:00 AM
Grand théâtre de Québec
Free
June 15, 2024, 8:00 PM
Salle Albert-Rousseau
$$
June 16 at 1.30 pm
Grand Théâtre de Québec
KWE! Restaurant
Professional chef Maxime Lizotte from the Wolastoqiyik Wahsipekuk First Nation and his team offer you a tasty menu ($).
See menuIn Quebec, tribal councils hold a significant place within Indigenous governance. These administrative and political entities play a role in decision-making processes and oversee projects impacting various aspects of life within Indigenous communities. Their commitment to self-determination and the well-being of these communities greatly enhances the quality and effectiveness of public services. Christian Rock, an organizational development advisor, and Audrey-Lise Rock-Hervieux, a communications officer, will speak to you on this subject.
Christian Flamand will talk about his snowmobile journey across Quebec, aimed at promoting reconciliation, healing, and raising awareness among non-Indigenous people. From Pessamit to Wendake, passing through Mashteuiatsh, Rouyn-Noranda, Maniwaki, and Saint-Michel-des-Saints, two editions have taken place, each covering about 3,250 km. Nearly 16 towns and communities have been visited.
Walking and dreaming are elements integral to the DNA of Puamun Meshkenu. It is an excellent way to gather, meet, and share with one another. Walking also represents a traditional activity that allows for a period of reflection and meditation, promoting holistic health. Before we set off, Dr. Vollant will share the intentions that guide this journey, allowing us to fully benefit from this enriching experience.
Young Atikamekw multidisciplinary artist, Catherine Boivin, expresses herself through various artistic forms, from video and photography to sculpture, painting, and performance. She is the recipient of the 2018 Manitou-Kiuna Award presented by the Kiuna Institution and a student in visual and media arts at UQAM. A jogger, powwow dancer, and actively involved in her community.
Mélanie Savard, a Wendat from the Turtle Clan and an artisan, is the founder of Yänonhchia' Art et Culture. She is a teacher and lecturer on the art of natural dyeing. This lecture will cover various techniques for creating dyes from plants, roots, barks, fruits, and flowers. You will also learn about other virtues and uses of these plant elements, which were traditionally used for healing and craftsmanship.
The exhibition Ota Ici Ute, conceived by Jacques Newashish, Christine Berthiaume, and Maya Cousineau-Mollen, is a vibrant celebration of humanity, cooperation, and commitment to the Indigenous cause through three art forms: painting, photography, and poetry. This intercultural project draws its inspiration from profound encounters with Indigenous and Quebec personalities, guided by a humanistic, social, artistic, or political commitment. By exploring the lives of these individuals, the artistic trio offers a rich reflection on the values and challenges of our contemporary society.
After the reconciliation walk, we invite you to relax and debrief with us. Join us for a moment of conviviality and sharing, where we can exchange our impressions about the journey, the discoveries made along the way, and the lessons we have learned. Come and join us (whether you participated in the walk or not) to continue nurturing your mind, body, and soul after this experience on the Puamun Meshkenu trails.
Mélanie Savard, a Wendat from the Turtle Clan and an artisan, is the founder of Yänonhchia' Art et Culture. She is a teacher and lecturer on the art of natural dyeing. This lecture will cover various techniques for creating dyes from plants, roots, barks, fruits, and flowers. You will also learn about other virtues and uses of these plant elements, which were traditionally used for healing and craftsmanship.
W8banaki native from Odanak and knowledge bearer, Michel Durand Nolett shares stories about the forest life of the W8banakiak, discussing their methods for moving around and ensuring their survival in southeastern Canada and the eastern United States. How did they use the plants in their environment for medicine and food? How did they pass on their knowledge to future generations? Life in the forest has played and still plays a crucial role for Indigenous peoples.
Originally from the Wendake community and still residing there, Arakwa Siouï is passionate about languages and a proud Wendat. This led her to study linguistics and actively participate in the revitalization of the Wendat language by teaching and creating educational materials. During the workshop, she will provide an overview of the history and evolution of the Wendat language, showing how it surrounds you without you even knowing. You will also discover the different sounds of this Iroquoian language and learn a few expressions and their meanings.
In June 2020, Deloitte Canada released their Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), the first of its kind in corporate Canada to answer call to action No. 92 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Deloitte has taken meaningful steps to strengthen trust and rebuild relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Peoples, staying true to our purpose to help and inspire others to thrive through access to knowledge and opportunities, as well as to our shared values to foster inclusion and to take care of each other.
Patricia Bouchard will present the results of her research.
Patricia Bouchard will present the results of her research.
The Guardians of the Territory program is an initiative of Université Laval in collaboration with Indigenous communities to ensure culturally adapted education that reflects the values and interests of First Peoples.
This program was designed by Mélanie Lameboy (Eeyou from Chisasibi), Vicky Aylestock (Innu from Pessamit), and Craig Commanda (Mentor Commissioner - Anicinape from Kitigan Zibi). It comprises 10 short films, including documentaries, experimental films, a music video, and more. These works were created by artists from the Atikamekw, Innu, Mi'gmaq, and Inuit Nations.
This program was designed by Mélanie Lameboy (Eeyou from Chisasibi), Vicky Aylestock (Innu from Pessamit), and Craig Commanda (Mentor Commissioner - Anicinape from Kitigan Zibi). It comprises 10 short films, including documentaries, experimental films, a music video, and more. These works were created by artists from the Atikamekw, Innu, Mi'gmaq, and Inuit Nations.
This program was designed by Mélanie Lameboy (Eeyou from Chisasibi), Vicky Aylestock (Innu from Pessamit), and Craig Commanda (Mentor Commissioner - Anicinape from Kitigan Zibi). It comprises 10 short films, including documentaries, experimental films, a music video, and more. These works were created by artists from the Atikamekw, Innu, Mi'gmaq, and Inuit Nations.
The Guardians of the Territory program is an initiative of Université Laval in collaboration with Indigenous communities to ensure culturally adapted education that reflects the values and interests of First Peoples.
Squash, corn, and beans are the three sisters of Wendat agriculture that teach us about the core values of our Wendat nation: mutual support, cooperation, and uplifting one another by working in synergy. Join a workshop to connect with these three nutritious plants, from the past to the present. Bonus! Get recipe ideas for preparing them at home.
Aroussen Gros-Louis, Wendat, is a powwow dance performer and has been involved in coordinating the Wendake powwow for ten consecutive years. Her presentation will provide you with insights into various aspects of the major powwow gatherings across Quebec.
The First Nations and Inuit Faculties of Medicine Program in Quebec (PFMPNIQ) enables First Nations and Inuit students to pursue medical studies. Why is such a program necessary? Come discover the goals and workings of the PFMPNIQ and learn about the journey of these medical students at Laval University.
Young Atikamekw multidisciplinary artist, Catherine Boivin, expresses herself through various artistic forms, from video and photography to sculpture, painting, and performance. She is the recipient of the 2018 Manitou-Kiuna Award presented by the Kiuna Institution and a student in visual and media arts at UQAM. A jogger, powwow dancer, and actively involved in her community.
Christian Flamand will talk about his snowmobile journey across Quebec, aimed at promoting reconciliation, healing, and raising awareness among non-Indigenous people. From Pessamit to Wendake, passing through Mashteuiatsh, Rouyn-Noranda, Maniwaki, and Saint-Michel-des-Saints, two editions have taken place, each covering about 3,250 km. Nearly 16 towns and communities have been visited.
W8banaki native from Odanak and knowledge bearer, Michel Durand Nolett shares stories about the forest life of the W8banakiak, discussing their methods for moving around and ensuring their survival in southeastern Canada and the eastern United States. How did they use the plants in their environment for medicine and food? How did they pass on their knowledge to future generations? Life in the forest has played and still plays a crucial role for Indigenous peoples.
The City of Quebec and the Huron-Wendat Nation have initiated a collaborative process around a revitalization and enhancement project for the Bastien-Racine axis. Conducted under the Economic and Community Development Initiative, this project has brought together decision-makers and professionals from both nations around a shared vision for the development of this area. Our ambition is to strengthen ties and build a lasting bridge between our communities through concrete land developments.
Moderated by Alex Boissonneault and Alexandre Bacon, a panel of speakers composed of both Indigenous and non-Indigenous individuals will discuss key topics such as the inclusion of Indigenous communities in the media ecosystem, and the fair and respectful coverage of Indigenous issues, among others.
W8banaki native from Odanak and knowledge bearer, Michel Durand Nolett shares stories about the forest life of the W8banakiak, discussing their methods for moving around and ensuring their survival in southeastern Canada and the eastern United States. How did they use the plants in their environment for medicine and food? How did they pass on their knowledge to future generations? Life in the forest has played and still plays a crucial role for Indigenous peoples.
Christian Flamand will talk about his snowmobile journey across Quebec, aimed at promoting reconciliation, healing, and raising awareness among non-Indigenous people. From Pessamit to Wendake, passing through Mashteuiatsh, Rouyn-Noranda, Maniwaki, and Saint-Michel-des-Saints, two editions have taken place, each covering about 3,250 km. Nearly 16 towns and communities have been visited.
Squash, corn, and beans are the three sisters of Wendat agriculture that teach us about the core values of our Wendat nation: mutual support, cooperation, and uplifting one another by working in synergy. Join a workshop to connect with these three nutritious plants, from the past to the present. Bonus! Get recipe ideas for preparing them at home.
Originally from the Wendake community and still residing there, Arakwa Siouï is passionate about languages and a proud Wendat. This led her to study linguistics and actively participate in the revitalization of the Wendat language by teaching and creating educational materials. During the workshop, she will provide an overview of the history and evolution of the Wendat language, showing how it surrounds you without you even knowing. You will also discover the different sounds of this Iroquoian language and learn a few expressions and their meanings.
Originally from the Wendake community and still residing there, Arakwa Siouï is passionate about languages and a proud Wendat. This led her to study linguistics and actively participate in the revitalization of the Wendat language by teaching and creating educational materials. During the workshop, she will provide an overview of the history and evolution of the Wendat language, showing how it surrounds you without you even knowing. You will also discover the different sounds of this Iroquoian language and learn a few expressions and their meanings.
Join us next Saturday, June 15th, in our new outdoor cinema to watch These Are My People : One of the first Canadian documentaries to foreground an Indigenous perspective on the history of Indigenous–settler relations, it features Standing Arrow and Tom Porter, from the Kanien’kéhaka (Mohawk) community of Akwesasne, who discuss longhouse religion, culture, government and the impacts of settler arrival on their way of life.
By means of audiovisual creation, Wapikoni contributes to the personal, creative and professional development of First Nations members and the affirmation of their communities. Since 2004, Wapikoni has produced more than 1,400 short films of all genres, 920 musical creations, and has received more than 240 prizes and awards. For this special evening, 18 short films will be presented. Please note that some scenes may be difficult to watch for certain audiences, particularly Indigenous audiences and young people.
Join us next Saturday, June 15th, in our new outdoor cinema to watch Soleils Atikamekw : Manawan, 1977. The police find a car containing five Atikamekws, all deceased. The initial suspects, two white Quebeckers, survived unscathed. The official version: drinking binge gone wrong. Until now, the crime has remained unsolved.
The 7th edition of the KWE! festival
The 2024 edition of the KWE! Festival was a great success, attracting thousands of visitors under the sun at Place Jean-Béliveau. The festival’s key features returned, such as the 11 Nations Trail, the Gardens of the Heart, craft demonstrations, the tourism space, “Je lis autochtones,” as well as cultural performances and conferences. The Resto-KWE!, with its exclusive menu created by Maxime Lizotte, once again offered flavors and dishes made from local ingredients. This year, several new additions were introduced, including craft demonstrations from the Mi’gmaq and Anishinabe Nations, as well as the Iroquoian space with pottery cooking.
The program included outdoor movie nights, musical performances from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., and new conference topics.
Dr. Stanley Vollant, our Honorary President
Since the first steps of KWE! Meet with Indigenous Peoples in 2017, Dr. Stanley Vollant, a renowned surgeon from the community of Pessamit (Innu) played a crucial role as the official ambassador of the event. Dr. Vollant's reputation and commitment have greatly contributed to KWE!
Founder of Puamun Meshkenu, “The Path of a Thousand Dreams”, he managed to mark and encourage many people to join an annual symbolic walk during the KWE! festival. In 2024, the Puamun Meshkenu Walk will take place on June 15 at 11:00am and the meeting point is right at the KWE! festival site at Place Jean-Béliveau, at the giant screen in the middle of the site.
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