Tradition, change and survival topics of international education conference

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"Tradition, Change and Survival" is the theme for an up coming world conference on Indigenous peoples' education. It is guessed that the gathering will attract about 800 traditional Native leaders, Indigenous educators and international figures from 17 different countries.

The conference is being billed as, "the first conference in world history dealing exclusively with Indigenous peoples' education within an international context."

The conference is scheduled to occur June 8 through 13 at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver with a number of high profile Natives participating. Included will be such renowned individuals as Hopi Elder and spiritual leader Thomas Banyaca, Canadian Native Arts Foundation founder John Kim Bell, Peruvian Indian leader/lecturer Salvador Palomino Flores, and Seneca leader and former editor of Akwesasn Notes, John Mohawk.

Of particular interest to a number of educators and social activists will be the workshops of author and international educator Paulo Friere whose book, "Pedagogy of the Oppressed" has been one of the most widely acclaimed pieces of literature in the past 15 years.

The majority of workshops are to address current educational programs, adult education, language, survival schools and teacher training.

Organizers say that participants will discuss and examine how traditional Native values and beliefs can be applied to present day education in an effort to change Native peoples' negative experiences with education into positive knowledge that will ensure cultural survival.

Apart from the workshops and symposiums that are to take place, the conference will include cultural events, a museum tour, exhibits, a film festival and traditional feast.

An official welcome by the Grand Chief and founding leader of the World Council of Indigenous Peoples, George Manuel, is scheduled for the opening day as is traditional food and B.C. Indian dancers.

Traditional dress is being encouraged for those who may wish to participate in the grand entry on June 8.

The conference is being sponsored by the International Indigenous Peoples' Education Association in Vancouver.

Information regarding registration fees and other news can be obtained by contacting Maxine Pape at the World Conference Office, 1607 E. Hastings Street, Room 111, Vancouver, B.C. V5L 1S7 (phone 604-251-4844, Local 30).