THUNDER BAY – Canadian legends The Tragically Hip, along with celebrated novelist Joseph Boyden, will be participating in this year’s Great Moon Gathering. The annual event, held on the west coast of James Bay in Ontario’s pristine Arctic lowlands, will gather in Fort Albany, February 15-17, and include the Cree First Nations of Attawapiskat, Peawanuck, Kashechewan, Moose Factory, and Fort Albany.
With a focus on both traditional and contemporary aboriginal education, the Great Moon Gathering celebrates the strengths and diversity of the Cree Nation. Over forty workshops will be offered, and are as varied as Cree language, sweat lodge, moccasin and hand drum making, classroom management, and early education.
“The moment I first stepped foot on the shores of James Bay, I knew the Tragically Hip had to go there, to the birthplace of our country,” said Gord Downie. The band’s excited. We’re going to hang out, talk, and listen. We have a fresh batch of songs we want to play, for both old friends and new.”
Joseph Boyden adds, “Recent coverage of reserves such as Attawapiskat only captures one part of a story that’s much deeper, nuanced, and beautiful than most Canadians know. The Hip and I are coming up to James Bay to show our love and support for a people and a culture that transcends so many of the negative stereotypes that have been floated the last months.”
The Tragically Hip’s performance on Thursday night, will be webcast live on their website, so check out www.thehip.com for more details.