Inuvik (Aug 07/06) - It was a grand reunion in Inuvik this past week, as the Gwich'in "Gathering of Minds" welcomed people from around the Beaufort Delta region and beyond, July 27-Aug. 1.

Visitors observed traditional arts, dances and a talent show, with different events held at different locations around the town.

Martina Cardinal prepared Muktuk, traditional whale meat served raw, at the Inuvik Family Centre's kitchen, Tuesday. She helped prepare the food for the "Gathering of Minds" Gwich'in assembly. - Philippe Morin/NNSL photo

On the Monday, a lively jigging contest was held at Inuvik's recreation centre, with performers frantically stepping to out-do their opponents. The crowds also sampled traditional foods such as beluga whale muktuk.

Annie Banksland, who helped prepare the muktuk in the Inuvik Family Centre's kitchen, said the food was an especially nice part of the gathering.

"We've been doing this all our lives, it's our culture," she said, as she and Martina Cardinal cleaned and cut strips of fresh whale meat.

While many elders attended the gathering, it also welcomed a younger generation.

Aklavik resident Dustin Edwards spent a week in Inuvik seeing various events. His hip-hop style sneakers and ball cap clashed with the traditional moccasins, vests and jewelry worn by many others in attendance, but it didn't interfere with his having a good time.

"I like the dancing," he said, adding it was nice to see a younger generation of Gwich'in people take up the traditions.

"Mostly I am just hanging out."

Charlie Showshoe, an elder from Fort McPherson, said he could not decide which event was his favourite.

"I like everything, all the meetings," he said.

Since the Gwich'in territory extends into Alaska, several people crossed the U.S. border to attend the gathering.

Wally McPherson, a resident of Aklavik, said he worried future Gwich'in assemblies might not be so well attended if passports are required for crossing the Canada-U.S. border, as is slated to happen in the coming years.

It's a law he feels might prevent people from taking part in the gatherings, which he said he enjoys.

"I like the dancing and the talent show, they have great prizes" he said.

The next Gwich'in assembly is scheduled to happen in two years time.