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From NAN Decade for Youth web site at http://www.nandecade.ca

SEVEN SACRED TEACHINGS YOUTH SUICIDE AWARENESS CONFERENCE - ALL YOUTH INVITED

When: January 31 to February 3, 2006

Where: NorWester Hotel & Resort, Thunder Bay

Who: All NAN youth, NAN community members, front line workers and concerned citizens.

Why: The territory of Nishnawbe Aski Nation has experienced a suicide epidemic since 1986. The rates of youth suicide in some NAN communities are the highest in the world. The Decade for Youth program, and the NAN Decade Youth Council, is hosting this event in an effort to re-connect NAN youth with traditional Elders, healers and teachings. NAN youth during the Youth Forum in 1994 specifically requested to learn the skills and knowledge of their ancestors so that they could build their self-esteem and self-worth through pride in their traditional heritage.

How: Contact the NAN Decade for Youth program at 1-800-465-9952 for a registration form and draft agenda. This event is free for NAN member youth, ages 16-29. There is a minimal fee of $75.00 for all others. Some travel subsidies available for NAN youth. PLEASE CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD A YOUTH REGISTRATION FORM IN WORD FORMAT Click Here

Attention teachers, parents, front line workers, PLEASE Click Here TO DOWNLOAD AN ADULT REGISTRATION FORM. The cost for adults is $75.00 for the conference.

HOTEL INFO: Best Western Nor'wester Resort Hotel

2080 Hwy. 61
Thunder Bay, ON. P7J 1B8
Ph: (807) 473-9123
Fax: (807) 473-9600
Reservations: 1 888 473 BEST

The deadline for registration is Friday, January 20, 2006.

WORLD CHAMPION HOOP DANCER DALLAS ARCAND

Program Highlights: The agenda focuses on the seven sacred teachings. During this event there will be traditional ceremonies, teachings, and activities for both youth and adults. We will be launching our “We Care: Yellow Balloon” campaign for community suicide prevention. We will also be offering our popular Girl Power training. On January 31st the Youth Council will be holding a Gala fundraising dinner for the Trust Fund with special guest speakers and a performance by Dallas Arcand of Alberta. Please join us for this important gathering!