Secret Path Richmond Hill

Secret Path: Walking Toward Reconciliation
October 22, 2017 – 6:00pm
Richmond Hill Centre for Performing Arts

We are raising money to cover the costs of an event that will explore the tragic story of Chanie Wenjack and Canada’s Indian Residential School System. The event is meant to raise awareness in the community of the historical mistreatment of First Nations people in Canada, and encourage members of the non-indigenous community to walk the path of (re)conciliation.

Program:
• Screening of the film “The Secret Path” introduced by Mike Downie.
• The performance of “The Stranger” by Jeremy Hoyle, lead singer of the tribute band “The Strictly Hip”.
• Screening of photographer Joel Clements’ photo documentary “The Weight of Your Heart” introduced by Chanie’s sister Pearl Wenjack Achneepineskum.
• Keynote Address by Prof. Emeritus Shirley Williams.
• Panel Discussion, with opportunity for questions from the audience.

Special Guests:
• Prof. Emeritus Shirley Williams
• Mike Downie (Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund)
• Jeremy Hoyle (Lead singer “The Strictly Hip”)
• Pearl Wenjack Achneepineskum (Chanie’s Sister)
• Daisy Munroe (Chanie’s Sister)
• Others to be announced soon.

This is a not-for-profit event. All funds raised will benefit Biindigen Healing & Arts (assisting the Indigenous community of York Region), and the Gord Downie Chanie Wenjack Fund (funding reconciliation initiatives nationwide).

Expenses:
Theatre Rental: $850.00
Film Licensing: $250.00
Travel & Lodging: $4000.00
Advertising: $1000.00
Elder’s Helper: $150.00
Miscellaneous Expenses: $500.00

Funds are required immediately. If you are unable to attend the show a $25 donation (ticket face value) would be greatly appreciated.

Your support will allow organisers to offset the expenses related to presenting this event, and maximize the donations possible to our two benefactors:
• Biindigen Healing & Arts
• Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund

Organizers:
Marj Andre, Community Connector, OnRichmondhill.com
Joel Clements, Documentary Photographer
Suzanne Smoke, Indigenous Cultural Coordinator, Biindigen Healing and Arts
David West, Richmond Hill Councillor Ward 4