The idea of KWE!

Discover our festival, a unique concept of cultural immersion that features the various facets of the 11 Indigenous Peoples in Quebec.

Our history

The idea for a major event in the heart of Québec City as part of the festivities surrounding the 150th anniversary of Confederation first took root in 2017. Of course, Indigenous Peoples have been on their lands from times immemorial. It was through the Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador and with the financial support from Indigenous Services Canada that a major event celebrating the 11 Indigenous Nations in Quebec, in Quebec City, took place. The event is named 'KWE,' which means 'Hello' in the vocabulary of several First Nations and represents an invitation to meet, a symbol of openness. With the success of this first edition, a non-profit organization was established in 2018, which continued the work of the KWE festival and initiatives for the reconciliation of peoples, up to today.

Today, our festival attracts more than 20,000 people on a yearly basis.

Photo credit: Stéphane Bourgeois

Crédit photo: François Ozan

Our mission

Promote issues and traditional knowledge of all Indigenous peoples in Quebec;

Raise awareness among the public and organizations about the realities of First Nations and Inuit Peoples in Quebec;

Organize and promote public events to celebrate the cultures, traditions and contemporary life of First Nations and Inuit;

Promote First Nations and Inuit cultures in Quebec through the organization and production of various public activities;

Promote the artistic talents of First Nations and Inuit Peoples in Quebec;

Produce professional shows and activities with First Nations and Inuit in Quebec.

Our values

First Nations and Inuit Governance

Commitment and involvement of First Nations and Inuit resources.

Equality & Inclusion

Ensuring that First Nations and Inuit in Quebec are fairly represented in all program activities.

Sharing

Bringing together First Nations and Inuit cultural bearers, artists and speakers to share their knowledge and experience.

Authenticity

We hold the ID1N and Original authenticity seals.

Mélanie Vincent

Executive DirectorSecretary - Treasurer of the Bard of Directors

A member of the Huron-Wendat Nation, with more than 25 years of experience in serving First Nations, with expertise in planning, coordination and strategic communication, among others. A graduate of Laval University and the University of Phoenix, she has also been a fellow with international organizations such as the UN and UNESCO, specializing in Indigenous issues and inclusion. In 2007, she founded her own company, Gestion MV Management, offering consulting services. In 2017, with the help of two valuable collaborators, she founded KWE! Meet with Indigenous Peoples. KWE is an organization that aims to promote closer ties between Québecers and the 11 Indigenous Peoples in Quebec.