Revitalizing women's gathering a forum for networking

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The holidayland of Penticton, B.C., is once again the site of a large women's gathering sponsored by the Native Okanagan Women's League August 20 to 23.

The theme of this second annual women's circle is "Rejuvenation of our Strength" and it is designed to bring women into closer contact with each other and to share experiences, according to organizer Jeanette Armstrong, director of education at En'owkin Centre in Penticton, out of which the women's league operates.

"We feel women need much more than counselling support. They need to talk to each other and discuss issues in their working, social and personal lives," said Armstrong. She explained that in a case of wife battering, for instance, often a woman can learned to cope with the situation by listening to how one of her peers handled the situation.

The gathering will be held at the Owl Rock Camp and there is no registration fee required. Participants are asked to supply a food contribution and plan on camping out. Women may bring husbands and children ? the men will prepare the meals while their spouses participate in the discussions and learning sessions.

All of the sessions will be informal. "We'll talk about whatever the women want to talk about like drugs and alcohol, family matters and work experiences," explained Armstrong. Elders have been asked to lead some of the discussions and so far Christine Joseph, a spiritual advisor from Alberta, has confirmed her attendance.

Advice-giving, counselling, relaxing and a time for drumming and singing are planned. Sunrise ceremonies, sweats and special presentations are on the agenda as well.

"Last year we had about 100 women from all parts of the country come to the gathering," said Armstrong. That number may double this year as more and more women hear of the staging of the women's circle.

"The gathering gives people hope and strength. They come away with good feeling and often find a new direction in life," Armstrong pointed out, adding that the spirituality discovered by some at the event gives them a good grounding to cope with life's problems.

The women's circle is open only to Native women.