Beban Social Centre was overflowing with festive Nuu-chah-nulth-aht at the Dec. 12 annual Quu’asa Urban Gathering. By the time dinner was about to be served there were lines of people waiting in the foyer to get in while more tables were hastily set up. Eventually, an adjacent room was opened to accommodate more guests.
Every year the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council Teechuktl (Mental Health Department) goes on the road in late November or early December to host a gathering. The urban gatherings not only allow guests to enjoy a Christmas turkey dinner, but also serves as a venue to get together to share culture and visit with one another.
There were at least 300 guests at the Nanaimo gathering with some leaving early to give up seats for those waiting. Quu’asa staff loaded up plates of turkey dinner prepared by caterer Fawn White and her team; they served each and every guest at their tables.
NTC resource people were in attendance providing information about diabetes testing and support, Naloxone kit information and there were NTC nurses providing health screenings.
Drummers entertained the people with songs from throughout Nuu-chah-nulth nations and there were plenty of door prizes given away.
NTC staff and Nuu-chah-nulth leaders introduced themselves before wishing everyone a happy holiday season.
