Join Dene mother and daughter writers and artists for an interactive poetry workshop that explores story, memory, family, and the teachings of the Land. Through poetry readings, conversation, and guided writing, participants will reflect on the stories they carry and create new work inspired by their own lives.

You are invited to submit your artwork and writing to Issue 18 of The Polyglot by August 10, 2026, so in this workshop, you may explore what it means to carry language, culture, and memory across generations. Whether you write poetry, make visual art, tell stories, or simply wish to reflect more deeply on your relationship with family and place, this workshop welcomes you.

Please join Anita Lafferty and Bella Lafferty for this interactive two-hour session featuring poetry readings, conversation, creative prompts, and opportunities to write and create together. Anyone with a notebook, sketchbook, or laptop—physical or virtual—is invited.

We look forward to seeing you on Thursday, August 13, 2026, from 6:30–8:30 p.m. We will gather at Sprucewood Library, 11555–95 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, and online for those joining from elsewhere.

Bios:

Anita Lafferty is Dene Cree and a citizen of Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ First Nation. An educator, consultant, and artist, she is deeply committed to nurturing relationships and embracing the principles of respect, reciprocity, community, and holistic vision. Guided by the wisdom of her Dene Cree ancestors and relations, Anita brings Indigenous and Western ways of knowing into conversation while centring Indigenous perspectives. Holding a Ph.D. in Education, she believes education is a lifelong journey of listening, sharing knowledge, and building bridges of understanding.

Isabella “Naakah” Carriere is a Dene, Cree, and Métis artist from Łíídlįį Kúę First Nation, born and raised in amiskwacîwâskahikan (Edmonton) in Treaty 6 Territory, with roots extending into Treaty 11. Her name, Naakah, means northern lights in Dene Gondi, a reflection of the way she brings light to her work. A beader guided by her matriarchs, Naakah’s art bridges ancestral teachings with contemporary expression. Her piece embodies the tension between the natural and artificial worlds, speaking to Indigenous resilience, land connection, and the ongoing struggle against consumption and erasure.