Aboriginal Literary Festival – OGAMAS: What We Gather For Each Other Brandon University, October 15-17, 2009

Thu, Feb 26, 2009

BRANDON, MB – Brandon University is delighted to announce the second bi-annual Aboriginal Literary Festival, OGAMAS: What We Gather for Each Other, to take place at Brandon University on the weekend of October 15 to 17, 2009. The Festival will again feature readings, performances and panel discussions by many of Canada’s best Aboriginal authors, as well as guest appearances by several international Indian authors. We are grateful for co-sponsorship by the Brandon Friendship Center, the Manitoba Métis Federation (Southwest Region), and the Universities of Winnipeg and Manitoba.The festival name, OGAMAS: WHAT WE GATHER FOR EACH OTHER was suggested by festival committee member Susan Dupuis and Richard van Camp, a guest from the last festival. OGAMAS was the personal name of Susan’s deceased aunt who used to scavenge things and give them to people as gifts.

Here are some comments from writers who participated in last year’s Festival:

“Thank you ever so much. Not only was I reunited with ‘my family,’ more were added to this circle of enlightenment and healing. The food was great, the company and organization superb, and the laughter is still singing in my heart, ear, and soul.” — Louise Halfe Skydancer

“I had a wonderful time, as I’m sure everybody did. The Festival was well organized, fun, and I learned a lot and did some good visiting as well. Yes, I would say you should do it again. Again, thank you and all of the committee members – it was great! ” — Maria Campbell

“Good day to you all. Thank you so much for hosting us this past weekend at Brandon University. I have returned home with a full heart and a full spirit. Mahsi cho! Thank you, as well, for your forethought of providing us with healthy meals and fantastic opportunities to visit and share. As well, and most importantly, you surrounded us with volunteers who were friendly and generous with their time. Let us all work together to meet again in two years in Winnipeg. Please stay in touch!” – Richard Van Camp

Brandon University is a small Liberal Arts University in southwestern Manitoba with strong Aboriginal programs in Native Studies, Aboriginal Visual Arts, Education, Counseling, and Teacher Training. A third of Brandon University’s student population is Aboriginal, and the University is proud to be the home of Canada’s premiere international Aboriginal Literary Festival!

Further details regarding the 2009 festival will be announced in the spring. Please put this exciting Festival on your fall calendars!

For more information, please contact:

Linda Burridge
University Librarian
Brandon University
Phone: (204) 727-9688
Email: Burridge@Brandonu.ca

Kelly Stifora
Communications Officer
Brandon University
Phone: (204) 727-9762
Email: communications@brandonu.ca

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