Media Advisory: First Peoples’ Gathering House announcement & Powwow

Members of the media are invited to attend a special announcement regarding the First Peoples’ Gathering House on Earth Day (Saturday, April 22).  

Construction on the First Peoples’ Gathering House, located at Simon Fraser University’s (SFU) Burnaby Campus, is currently underway and is expected to be completed in 2024. 

Representatives from SFU, the City of Burnaby and the Provincial Government will be in attendance. 

Media are also invited to attend the SFU First Nations, Metis & Inuit Student Association’s (FNMISA) inaugural Honouring Indigenous Students Powwow following the speeches and refreshments. 

SFU embarked on a journey to respond to the community desire for a culturally, appropriate ceremonial space in 2016. The First Peoples’ Gathering House project addresses call to action 3 of the Walk this Path with Us Report: Reinvigorate long-delayed plans for creating a culturally appropriate ceremonial hall, which would comprise Phase 1 of an eventual Coast Salish longhouse.

Supported by Indigenous host communities, the First Peoples’ Gathering House is designed as a shared gathering space for ceremonies, cultural events, celebrations, workshops and sharing knowledge. The legacy extends beyond the current students, staff and visitors to provide a safe and welcoming space for future generations at SFU.

WHEN:

Saturday, April 22, 2023 

10:30 a.m. – Announcement, guest speakers
11:20 a.m. - Refreshments, chili and bannock lunch reception 

Following event, dignitaries and guests proceed to the SFU First Nations, Metis & Inuit Student Association’s (FNMISA) inaugural Honouring Indigenous Students Powwow (starts at noon) at the SFU West Gym. 

 WHERE: 

SFU Burnaby Campus 
First Peoples' Gathering House construction site - adjacent to the Trottier Observatory 
8888 University Drive 
Burnaby, B.C. 

CONTACT 

MELISSA SHAW, SFU Communications & Marketing 
236.880.3297 | melissa_shaw@sfu.ca  

Simon Fraser University
Communications & Marketing |  SFU Media Experts Directory
778.782.3210

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