The popular 2014 Tl’etinqox-T’in (Anaham) cultural camp will take place this summer from July 7 to 17 at Raven Lake.
Organizers say the camp has been ongoing for 25 years at various locations throughout Tsilhqot’in Territory.
“Every year, Tl’etinqox members camp with their families, including elders and children,” says camp counsellor Leslie Stump.
Various cultural activities are planned throughout the 10 day camp, she adds.
Participants enjoy making birch bark baskets and baby baskets, moccasins and gloves, beading, teaching, story and legend telling, drumming, singing, prayers, traditional teachings, medicine walks, horse riding, sweat house building, hunting, fishing, drying meat and fish, canoeing and more.
To commemorate the camp’s 25th anniversary, the “Battle of the Bones” Traditional Lehal Tournament is scheduled for two days with an added pot of a minimum of $1,000.
Other events include the “Chief Anaham Grand Potlatch,” the traditional baby ceremony, traditional retirement acknowledgement and recognition by Chief Joe Alphonse.
New to the roster are fiddle teaching, a talent show, Punky Lake wellness teachings, Denisiqi Family Wellness leading games, canning berries, and more drumming and singing. Stump said Tl’etinqox Cultural Camp is well known throughout the Chilcotin and many people participate.
“This event is open to anyone that is interested and everyone is welcome, whether you decide to visit for a day or daily, even camping.”
Currently, Tl’etinqox is preparing for this event by fundraising to assist with the expenses.
Any donations would be greatly appreciated.
For more information contact Stump at 250-394-4919 or Chief Joe Alphonse at 250-394-4212.