Jason Unrau
Northern News Services

Inuvik (Apr 02/04) - With the International Day of Families just around the corner, a group of volunteers is getting set to celebrate in a unique way.

Calling themselves the Inuvik Committee for the International Day of Families, they are planning a host of activities for May 15.

"There are lots of people living here who come from all over the world," said committee chair Ruth Wright. "So we are in a unique position to learn from each other and share in each others' cultures."

Combining this unique attribute of the town's population demographic and the fact many frequently complain that there are not enough family-orientated activities, Wright and the committee have come up with a plan to take advantage of the former while addressing the latter.

Though particulars have yet to be hammered out, for the run-up week to Saturday, May 15, the family day committee is planning to show several feature films from around the world that deal with family themes and issues.

On May 14, it will be National Costume Day and residents will be encouraged to wear something indicative of their national heritage.

On the following day, a host of activities including a picnic at Jim Koe Park, concert by Fro-Nation and drum dancing lessons will take place.

Open mike night

To share more information and get more volunteers on board, the committee has organized an Open Mike Coffee House at the Aurora College Resource Room April 16, starting at 7:30 p.m.

Wright is encouraging everyone to come out, sing a song or read a poem if the mood strikes and get details about the run-up week and family day.

"It's quite a good idea and I am hoping that lots of people, especially local people, get involved," said committee member Simon Jozzy.

Originally from Zimbabwe, Jozzy has been in Inuvik for 12 years.

"I'm not sure what clothing I can wear for Zimbabwe (for National Costume Day)," he said. "But I will find some African attire."

Developed by the United Nations as a global initiative to improve the well-being of families around the world, the International Day of Families will celebrate it's 10th anniversary this year.

A decade ago, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 1994 International Year of the Family. Since then, the family day has been a way "to build on the original vision and pay tribute to families worldwide," according to the UN.