Invitation to Akaitcho Hall Gathering - June 17 and 25

Operating from 1958 to 1994, Akaitcho Hall was a residence for children from across the North who attended the neighbouring Sir John Franklin School. As NWTACI explores potential sites for a new art gallery and visual arts-focused community centre, the former Akaitcho Hall lot has emerged as the preferred location.

“We look forward to hearing from as many people as possible, and especially from residential school survivors and their family members, about the significance of the former Akaitcho Hall site and whether or not it might be an appropriate location for a public art gallery.” - Adrian Bell, Project Director

A panel of former students will share their insights along with Gwichyà Gwich’in historian Dr. Crystal Gail Fraser. The in-person and virtual gatherings will offer space to honour former students and to discuss how an art centre can respectfully acknowledge their experiences.

“Akaitcho Hall is more than a vacant lot—it is about the histories and experiences of northerners. Today, genuine truth and reconciliation begin with listening to those Survivors and former students whose lives were shaped at Akaitcho Hall. We must honour their words and wisdom. Only then can a new art centre rise as a place of remembrance, creativity, and collective healing.” - Dr. Crystal Fraser

On-site wellness support will be available, and supper will be provided at the in-person gathering.You can learn more about the gatherings on our website [www.nwtartcentre.ca], or by emailing me back at this address. 

We hope you can join us! As well, please share the invitation with others who might want to attend.  

June 17, 2025, 5:00-8:00pm

Tree of Peace Friendship Centre

5011 51 Street, Yellowknife

Supper will be provided, wellness support available

Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AeTHMPMm9/ 

June 25, 2025, 7:00-8:30pm

Online via Zoom

Wellness support provided

Registration link: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/95vCSTWSThSerypJYi9Sjg

Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/share/16bW6j7utT/