Edmonton 2006: Message from the Indigenous Council
Now that the fifth gathering has come to its end we will continue on our journey toward healthy communities that live in harmony with one another. Through our health and healing, these communities will be comprised of individuals with unlimited potential to have a positive impact on not only their respective communities but their world. People who will know no other way but to reach for the stars!
The Fifth Gathering has brought us a deeper understanding of the impact that our collective histories have had on us as Indigenous peoples, and has proven to us that we will continue to become stronger and healthier regardless of our struggles. Indeed, it is those very struggles that have taught us the power of resiliency, which gives us strength and courage. The journey has not been easy thus far, yet here we are, a living testament to the power of Indigenous peoples.
Our common experiences and challenges are not all that bind us, we are also united in our passion and our need to contribute and make a difference. We leave Edmonton with a clearer understanding of our strengths and our talents and with solutions that we can all embrace for the benefit of our people.
The Fifth Gathering has truly been powerful. We are moving past blame and victimisation to a place of empowerment. And it is in the place of empowerment where we will make our greatest strides. The IIC has been honoured to play a part in bringing together Indigenous people from around the world to share their stories and successes and celebrate their cultures.
We are confident that the Sixth Gathering in September 2010 which is to be hosted Papa Ola Lohaki will offer us another wonderful opportunity to share and celebrate, and will hold in store even more positive solutions for the healing of our communities. To the Hawaiian people, thank you for the blessing that you have given us and we look forward to visiting you in 2010.
28 August 2006