Meet with Indigenous Peoples

Mélanie Vincent is a member of the Huron-Wendat Nation and the founder and Executive Director of KWE!, an event intended to bring Quebecers and the Indigenous?Peoples in Quebec closer together.

We had the chance to sit down and ask her some questions about her work with the community and festival.

Q: Can you describe KWE! in a few words?

A:? KWE! Meet with Indigenous Peoples is all about celebrating the 11?Indigenous Nations in Quebec through cultural performances, music, activities and demonstrations of our skills and knowledge, in an open and welcoming environment.

?

Q: How did the festival go this year?

A:?The 7th edition of the festival was a huge success!? The weather was great for the whole weekend. And we're seeing more and more young people and kids, which is great, because it keeps the focus on family.

?

Q:?What are KWE's commitments to community, diversity and inclusion?

A: We're a non-profit organization focused on bringing people together through education and awareness-raising. Equity and Inclusion are baked into our values, as we ensure the representation of First Nations and Inuit Peoples in our activities. We really see how devoted people are to sharing their culture, talents and traditions with an open heart.

Q: What was the biggest highlight from your show on National Indigenous Peoples Day?

A:?I don't even have to think about it—for me, the performance of our new theme song, Put your hands up! It's a hip-hop song written by a young Atikamekw and a Quebecer. They won a contest during last year's event and were selected to collaborate with Violent Ground and Q052.

?

Q: What should people do if they want to learn more about the 11?Indigenous cultures in Quebec?

A: Come to KWE! And go visit Indigenous communities and take part in local events! There are over 250?Indigenous tourist destinations in Quebec. So plan a trip, dig into a book, visit an Indigenous museum, watch short films from Indigenous creators working with Wapikoni Mobile, take part in commemorative events, visit the Aboriginal Peoples Fact and Fiction website, learn more about Indigenous arts and artists… the possibilities are endless!

"Our partnership is all about values"

Desjardins supports many different community initiatives that promote culture. Here's how Mélanie summed up the collaboration between KWE! and Desjardins:

KWE! will be back next year with its festival , its show and a whole lineup of activities. Don't miss it!?