JAIB – About the IIBG

The Atikamekw Council of Wemotaci are pleased to announce that the indigenous inter-band games will be held in wemotaci from july 3 to12, 2017.

In 1991, Mashteuiatsh, an Innu Nation community, was the instigator of the first Indigenous Inter-Band Games (IIBG). Over the years, the community hosted several athletes in various sporting disciplines. It subsequently provided the opportunity for other communities to host IIBGs in their own communities. The 2015 edition was held in Mashteuiatsh.

Expected benefits for the Atikamekw of Wemotaci

Over the years, the Indigenous Inter-Band Games have become one of the major events that have allowed young people in our community to develop healthy lifestyles, a sense of self-fulfillment, pride in their identity and stronger ties to their nation. For the participants, the games will encourage the creation of connections with other members of First Nations.

In addition, we are hoping for the following:

Visibility of the Wemotaci community at the provincial level;
An upgrading of the sporting and cultural infrastructures of the community;
A valorization of the Atikamekw culture and the proud artisans and artists of the community;
Consultation and consolidation of the members of the community through this major project;
An incentive for younger and older people to engage in physical activity or sports;
A capacity of reception, accommodation for tourism strengthening the local economy;
An enhancement of members’ capacities to meet a major project.

VISION

Provide a sporting framework for First Nations young athletes that will promote a holistic development of their person based on their talent, culture and aspirations.

Mission

Encourage young people to take part in sporting events, in a safe environment, to enhance their sporting and fraternal skills and to reinforce them in their culture and traditions.

OBJECTIVES

For the summer of 2017, Wemotaci will host the IIBG. There will be nearly 1050 athletes, aged between 9 and 17, their coaches and chaperones, all of whom are members of one of the 11 First Nations of Quebec. Above all, we want to offer these athletes opportunities to develop and maintain an active lifestyle, healthy eating habits and friendships with other nations. In addition, we want to enable them to become more aware of their culture and to be proud of it.