Traditions: National Gatherings on Indigenous Knowledge is the 3^rd in a series of three National Gatherings organized by the Department of Canadian Heritage, with the goal of engaging Aboriginal communities across Canada in a dialogue on the key issues relating to artistic expression, cultures and tourism, and Indigenous knowledge. These Gatherings will help to build and enhance policies, programs and services that are relevant to, and supportive of the needs of Aboriginal peoples. Canadian Heritage is committed to building on the discussions and outcomes from the National Gatherings to work towards institutional changes within the Canadian Heritage Portfolio relating to Aboriginal artistic expression, tourism, and traditional knowledge.

Traditions: National Gatherings on Indigenous Knowledge acknowledge and celebrate that an underlying strength of Canada is founded on the rich contributions of Aboriginal peoples across the country. Dialogues with First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples have identified the need to respond to the unique challenges faced by Indigenous communities related to Indigenous Knowledge and Artistic Expression; Intellectual and Cultural Properties; and Languages and Cultures.

Traditions: National Gatherings on Indigenous Knowledge will provide a forum in which key stakeholders from the Canadian Heritage Portfolio can come together with Indigenous communities and other government sectors to discuss a framework for the recognition, respect and celebration of Indigenous Knowledge and Artistic Expression; Intellectual and Cultural Properties; and Languages and Cultures.

For participants, the National Gatherings will provide opportunities for networking and dialogue, sharing of best practices, increased knowledge of available support from federal departments and agencies, brainstorming on opportunities and strategies for change, and open and relevant discussions of key issues. For the Canadian Heritage Portfolio, the National Gatherings will lead to a better understanding of how the mandate of Canadian Heritage relates to the support of Indigenous Knowledge.