There was an abundance of culture on display at the Bonnyville Friendship Centre's National Aboriginal Day celebrations. Members of the community and students from Dr.
There was an abundance of culture on display at the Bonnyville Friendship Centre's National Aboriginal Day celebrations.
Members of the community and students from Dr. Bernard Brosseau Middle School packed Little Leap Park in Bonnyville on June 21, to celebrate Aboriginal culture.
"Today we get to celebrate, because even though our people were put down so much, we're still here and we're still strong. We're here able to sing and dance for you, and to share our stories with you," said Rosa John.
A grand entry lead by flag carrier Melvin John followed opening remarks. Before the storytelling could begin, dignitaries had their turn to share what Aboriginal Day meant to them.
Mayor Gene Sobolewski said there is still an abundance of learning that needs to be done when it comes to Aboriginal cultures.
"This morning, I was blessed to take part in a pipe ceremony with the elders. There are a lot of things that we in the Town of Bonnyville need to learn. We need to learn some of the customs and listen to the stories, because they have some phenomenal knowledge in them," expressed Sobolewski.
Residents were given the immediate chance to do just that. Rosa introduced Melvin once more, this time as a performer, and gave a little bit of background on the men's northern traditional dance.
Melvin's rhythmic movements painted the picture of a hunter and a warrior, Rosa explained.
Attendees watched as group after group displayed a different style of dance and told a different tale.
From the light and flowing healing dance to the aggressive and vibrant men's fancy dance, many aspects of Cree culture were packed into each performance.
While Rosa was happy to share these tales with everyone in attendance, she also asked residents not to forget the hardships her culture had to endure.
"Aboriginal Day is also important because people need to know we survived. We survived residential schools and the taking away of land. We've gone through so much and we're still here. I think it's important for the non-Native people to see that, and to see how important our culture is to us," she expressed.
Worried some in the region still have a closed mind, Rosa said she wished a few more of the older members of the community would come out and show support.
"It's great to see all the kids here, but I really wish we saw more of the parents. I honestly still think there's a lot of prejudice that still exists here in Bonnyville."
