Seminar 1 – A Personal History of Wales Sat. 10:45 – 11:45 a.m. Bellevue South

In this talk, Anastasia Llewellyn weaves tales of her recent travels to Wales into a discussion of Welsh culture and history, through a selection of Welsh-themed objects which each hold special meaning to her. From family history to fashion, via music and sports, these objects reflect Anastasia’s journey as a Welsh learner, as well as her academic research.

Anastasia is a PhD candidate in political science and public policy, focusing on the link between language and housing activism and policy. Her doctoral research builds on her master’s in translation studies, for which she completed a thesis about the sociopolitical context and impacts of the 1588 Welsh Bible. When she is not immersed in a pile of old books or the latest census data, Anastasia can likely be found at a choir rehearsal or at a meeting of the Ottawa Welsh Society, of which she is president.

Seminar 2 – Welsh Women’s Peace Petition 1923/4 to Today Saturday 12:45 – 1:15 p.m. Bellevue South
Sunday 11:15 – 11:45 a.m. Martello Room (Limited seating)

A pre-recorded talk with Ann Griffith and Eirlys Barker. In July 2017 Ann received a message from her sister in Wales asking that she go to the Smithsonian to verify that collection 34965 was really the Peace Petition from 390,296 Women of Wales sent to the women of the US in 1924.

Ann Griffith was raised in Aberystwyth and speaks Welsh fluently. Washington DC has been home since 2016.

Eirlys Barker is from Aberystwyth, coming to the US in 1976 via Germany, living in Florida and Virginia. She has history degrees from what is now Cardiff University and Virginia’s College of William and Mary. She has been involved in Heddwch Nain since 2021.

Seminar 3 – Welsh Traditional Music: a beginner’s guide Saturday 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. Bellevue South
Sunday 10:30 a.m. Martello Room (limited seating)

Created and narrated by Rhodri McDonagh, Welsh fiddler, vocalist and composer. This video takes you on a short fascinating journey through the history and evolution of Welsh Traditional Music.You will also learn about traditional Welsh musical instruments as well as the structure and sounds of Welsh tunes. On Saturday, Siân Thomas will lead a discussion and Q&A on the history of Welsh music after the video. On Sunday morning, the video will be replayed with no discussion.

Siân Thomas moved to Wales in 1980, working in Arts, Media, and Community development. She was Director of trac cymru, the national traditional music agency, and joined the Gorsedd in 2013.