Open to all ages and abilities, FREE (or by donation), please register

CIF Reconciliation Society is proud to create a special community star blanket with Dale Swampy. The blanket will tell the story of participants who help be part of healing, reconciliAction, and EMPOWERMENT by reflecting on residential schools, the 60s scoop, and reconciliation, and making a part of the blanket. The event is open to all, Indigenous and non-Indigenous, and is free of charge, with the option to donate. This project is part of the CIFRS residency at Sparrow Artspace, which includes an exhibition, several workshops, and a Colouring it Forward pop-up shop.

In this workshop, Dale will give a brief overview of the history and meaning of star blankets and their connection to reconciliation, followed by a sharing circle and your chance to add a piece to the blanket with a message, a name of a lost one or survivor, painting, beading, or any way you want to contribute to this collaborative blanket.

Dale Swampy's expertise and vision will guide us through creating a public-participation star blanket, which will be on display at our September 30th Event, Pokaiks- The Children at Shaw Millenium Park, and it will be included in our Arts Commons +15 Galleries Exhibition in 2024.

Dale Swampy is the owner and operator of Osaw Kihew (@OKBlankets). Dale is a full-time university student while sewing star blankets from home. Dale learned to sew during a difficult time in his life, and it brought him therapeutic value. The blankets bring healing and happiness with each stitch for Dale. The inspiration for making blankets is to revitalize the culture and educate Canadians on the history and culture of Indigenous people.

We thank our funding partners: Calgary Arts Development and Sparrow Artspace!