Gathering of Our People (GOOP) 2026
Arthur Koosees and Bella Cheechoo attending to the Learning from Lake Sturgeon booth.
As whispers of summer are felt from the warm winds and longer days, many Moose Cree community members prepare to celebrate language, culture, and family at the annual Gathering of Our People (GOOP) event in Moose Factory, Ontario. Many community members living elsewhere in Canada return home to enjoy community feasts, learn about programming, enjoy and purchase beautiful crafts for themselves and loved ones.
This year, Moose Cree Environmental Intern Arthur Koosees and Summer Student Bella Cheechoo set up a Learning from Lake Sturgeon information booth and welcomed community members and friends. It was a great turnout! Arthur says "GOOP is always a special time for me. Even though I didn't grow up or live in the community, I have always loved coming home to visit my homelands. There's something special about being on nit-askiy-nan (our land), surrounded by ililiwuk (our people), and hearing the cadence of the wind that makes me feel spiritually grounded."
Arthur and Bella gave away an entire box (about 300 copies) of 2026 zines and two boxes of Moose River Basin books to community members. Arthur mentions "a special thank you goes to Bella, as well as another MCFN summer student, Namayo, for holding down the fort while I stepped away to sing with Singing Spirit during the one-day pow-wow out front of the local Northern Store. My spirit needed that time to sing; for myself, for my family, and especially for my people." They also gave out some exciting draw prizes, including a fully insulated ice fishing tent and a plush porcupine. The porcupine found its way to one of the children at the event - the perfect home for it!
After a full day of food, learning, and crafts, each evening brings more energy through open mic shows, and performances by talented artists, including Thelma Cheechoo, Waskaganish Step Dancers, Shibastik, Miikun, Stan Wesley, Ron Nesrallah, and local singers and songwriters. Arthur says "the highlight of the evening was definitely Shibastik and the pop-up Michael Jackson event that was only posted 2 or so hours before the viewing as a fun challenge. Two of the cutest kids came and took the stage by storm. There was also a challenge where I watched 20 people fit into one car." You can view the recorded livestreams from the event on @MooseCreeLIVE via YouTube here.
"GOOP always reminds me of the importance of reconnecting with community, culture, and land. It's a time that fills my heart and renews my sprit every year," Arthur reminisces.
The Learning from Lake Sturgeon team looks forward to celebrating again next year!