The Celebration of Nations was a big success with a lot going on over the four days.
Boh Kubrakovich, the Senior Officer of the First Nations in Treaty 2 Territory, says there was a good response from those who attended.
“They think it’s fun. They really enjoy what the government of Treaty 2 is doing. We had two days of full council meetings, we had the all councils come in, we had 55 council members come into the governing council sessions. So that was awesome. Then three days full of events. It was really good.”
Kubrakovich says there were a few small glitches, but overall everything went well.
“The talent went well yesterday. The rec hockey was awesome. The organizers did a wonderful job with recreation. So Chief McKay, his group, did an awesome job and we look forward to next year.”
A lot of people came out. “So the West Region Tribal Council Days used to have thousands of people, and we want to get up to that level. But being the first year coming back, I would say at least a thousand. The parking lot was full and the Rotary and on the side, so it’s just like a Kings hockey game.”
Plans are already being made for Celebration of Nations to take place next year.
“We know lots of events. We know hockey is going to be in the forefront and we know the basketball and volleyball went really well. We got to move a pool venue right into town. But other than that I think it’s fine. Minor hockey, we tested it this year. The Treaty 2 Minor Hockey Association that’s just starting up here in the spring and ready for the fall. Will decide on how they want to do their minor hockey. And it’s totally up to the organizing body that wants to do any event.”
Kubrakovich says Dauphin is a vibrant place at the heart of Treaty 2. “Dauphin’s a special place because this is an original reserve, the Dauphin Lake Indian Band, was here long before settlers showed up. And the communities have never left. Nor are the settler people leaving. So we all have to work together, and Dauphin’s a great place. There’s a lot of good people here in Dauphin, and we want to continue on working with them.”
He says the First Nations people have excellent opportunities within the Treaty 2 Territory.
