The Gloaming – La Pénombre – Pilaumugwiaq

At a time when movements for diversity, equity, and inclusion face growing resistance, how do we continue the work of justice?

As day transitions to night, and winter gives way to spring, we gather in the liminal space of The Gloaming – La Pénombre – Pilaumugwiaq to confront the urgent and complex realities of global equity, inclusion, and justice. This Day of Learning creates space to explore these pressing questions through dialogue, storytelling, and shared learning. Hosted by ACIC and UNB Saint John as part of New Brunswick’s Day of Learning, this gathering will connect local and global struggles for equity, recognizing the deep interconnections between international cooperation, economic justice, and human rights.

Rooted in intergenerational exchange, this event will bring together students, community members, Elders, and practitioners to share knowledge, reflect on barriers to equity, and explore pathways forward. Through research, ceremony, and collective discussions, we will engage with the realities of systemic inequality while fostering trust, reciprocity, and action-oriented learning.

Throughout the day, participants will take part in a series of conversations, from critical dialogues on global equity and the backlash against DEI, to storytelling circles and research presentations that highlight community-driven solutions to social issues. A sacred fire will serve as a space for reflection, guided by Indigenous knowledge keepers. Student-led initiatives will spark discussion on problem-solving and transformative change, while opportunities to share meals—including a sunset Iftar in recognition of Ramadan—will foster connection across cultures and generations. The gathering will conclude with a space for gratitude, mentorship, and collective reflection on the ideas and commitments that emerge.

*Please note that the agenda/schedule is subject to changes and updates.

EVENT LOGISTICS & PARTICIPATION GUIDE

Welcome to The Gloaming – La Pénombre – Pilaumugwiaq, a gathering rooted in storytelling, intergenerational dialogue, and the collective pursuit of global equity. This guide provides essential information to support your participation and ensure a meaningful, inclusive experience.

If you have any questions or specific needs—including accessibility accommodations—please reach out in advance to stephany.peterson@unb.ca.

Why We Gather

If the past five years have taught us anything, it is that where, how, and why we gather matters.

If the past million and a half years have taught us anything, it is that who, what, and when we gather matters.

We gather in the gloaming, dans la pénombre, pilaumugwiaq—that liminal space as day becomes night—to ignite conversations through storytelling.

This is a space to engage deeply with the urgent and interconnected realities of equity, inclusion, and justice—locally and globally. Through sacred fire, shared meals, and collective dialogue, we create an intentional space to explore these complex questions with trust, hope, and reciprocity.

GATHERING LOCATIONS AND TIMES

Our gathering follows a flexible flow, guided by our intentions and the rhythm of the day. The only fixed times are:

• 2:15 PM – Welcome/Safe Space opens

• 7:30 PM – Sunset Iftar

Most activities will be held both indoors and outdoors, weather permitting. If you are ever unsure of a location, you may visit the Sacred Fire to ask a helper for guidance.

ACCESSIBILITY & INCLUSIVITY

We are committed to creating a gathering that is accessible and inclusive.

If you have accessibility needs (mobility, sensory accommodations, dietary concerns, etc.), we encourage you to contact stephany.peterson@unb.ca as soon as possible to ensure your needs are met.

The following are available:

• Accessible entrances and facilities across the UNB Saint John campus

• Quiet, low-stimulus areas at the Welcome and Safe Space Area

• Guided assistance at the Sacred Fire throughout the day

PARTICIPATION GUIDELINES

This gathering is a shared responsibility. To ensure a safe, respectful, and collaborative environment, we ask that all participants:

1. Honor the spirit of the Sacred Fire and Ramadan practices —a place for reflection, guidance, and community care. Find more information here and here. 

2. Engage with openness and curiosity, even when ideas challenge assumptions.

3. Respect confidentiality—stories shared in the Talking Circle remain within that space.

4. Practice deep listening—seek understanding before responding.

5. Acknowledge interdependence—our actions impact the collective experience.

If any concerns arise, please reach out to stephany.peterson@unb.ca.

WHAT TO BRING

1. Layered clothing for comfort during both indoor and outdoor activities.

2. An open heart and mind for collective dialogue and storytelling.

           3.         Writing utensil for completing peer review feedback form

FAQs

Is this event open to the public?

Yes, this is a community gathering. All are welcome.

What if I cannot stay for the entire event?

You are welcome to attend as much or as little as your schedule allows. You may register at https://www.acic-caci.org/event-details/the-gloaming-la-penombre-pilaumugwiaq

Is there a cost to attend?

No—this event is offered as a gift of community.

WITH GRATITUDE

This is more than an event—it is an intergenerational call to action, a space for mentorship, resistance, and hope.

In the gloaming, we gather to spark conversations that carry forward into the world.

For any additional questions or support, please contact:

stephany.peterson@unb.ca