Calgary celebrated National Indigenous People Day with a series of events honoring Indigenous culture and acknowledging past traumas. Canadians are seeking a new way forward toward reconciliation. Doug Vaessen brings you the story.
Calgary was abuzz with vibrant ceremonies and heartfelt events in honour of National Indigenous Peoples Day. The city’s celebrations served as both a tribute to Indigenous cultures and a step toward healing past traumas, offering a powerful reminder of resilience and community.
The day's festivities commenced with a significant reconciliation walk to Confluence, a site recently renamed to honour its cultural importance. This walk was more than a mere procession; it symbolized a collective journey toward understanding and healing. Among the participants was Janis Weasel Bear, who attended with her grandsons. Janis has a deeply personal connection to the day, as her father, aunts, and uncles endured the harsh realities of residential schools. "This day is crucial for me," she said, "Being part of this landscape with my grandsons signifies our commitment to moving forward with reconciliation."
Janis highlighted how these events play a vital role in healing generational wounds. "Having my grandsons here and participating in this reconciliation walk is incredible," she explained. "It shows that we are making progress and taking steps towards healing." For Janis, National Indigenous Peoples Day is a poignant reminder of the importance of acknowledging past traumas while actively seeking to build a better future.
Several Calgary schools also took part in the day's events, renewing their commitments to truth and reconciliation. Among them were Catherine Nichols Gunn, Sir John A. Macdonald, and John G. Diefenbaker schools. At John G. Diefenbaker, Grade 11 student Nevaeh Saddleback marked the occasion by making her first ribbon skirt with her grandmother. "Because of the residential schools, there has been a lot of generational trauma," Nevaeh shared. "I think it’s really important today to say that we are still here." Her ribbon skirt was not just a piece of clothing but a symbol of cultural pride and resilience.
One of the highlights of the day was the raising of a traditional four-pole Blackfoot teepee, an event led by Garret C. Smith. As the teepee rose, it stood as a symbol of cultural endurance and community spirit. Garret emphasized the importance of sharing Indigenous culture and inviting others to learn. "The idea to come together and build community has been part of our principles since we signed the treaty," he explained. "Today is about looking past our initial traumas and engaging in our culture and spirituality. It's a celebration of who we are and our enduring heritage."
Garret's words resonated with many participants, including non-Indigenous attendees who were eager to learn and show support. The teepee raising was a communal effort, symbolizing the unity and collaboration that National Indigenous Peoples Day aims to foster. For Garret and many others, this day is not only about remembrance but also about celebrating the vibrant cultures that have withstood the test of time.
The day's events were a testament to the ongoing efforts towards reconciliation and healing. Calgary's commitment to honouring National Indigenous Peoples Day highlights the importance of such celebrations in fostering understanding and unity. The various ceremonies and activities were designed not only to remember the past but also to celebrate the present and inspire a future built on mutual respect and collaboration.
In addition to the reconciliation walk and the teepee raising, the day featured various cultural performances, storytelling sessions, and educational workshops. These activities provided a platform for Indigenous voices to be heard and celebrated. Traditional dances and songs filled the air, each performance telling a story of heritage and resilience. Storytellers shared tales that had been passed down through generations, offering insights into the rich cultural tapestry of Indigenous communities.
Educational workshops were particularly impactful, offering attendees a deeper understanding of Indigenous history and contemporary issues. These sessions covered a range of topics, from the history of residential schools to the significance of traditional practices in modern times. For many participants, these workshops were eye-opening experiences that fostered greater empathy and awareness.
As the day drew to a close, the sense of community and shared purpose was palpable. The events of National Indigenous Peoples Day in Calgary were not just about commemorating the past but about building bridges and forging a path toward a more inclusive future. The celebrations underscored the importance of acknowledging historical injustices while also recognizing the strength and resilience of Indigenous cultures.
Calgary's National Indigenous Peoples Day serves as an annual reminder of the ongoing journey towards reconciliation. It is a day of reflection, celebration, and education, encouraging all Canadians to engage with and learn from Indigenous communities. The city's vibrant festivities and heartfelt ceremonies showcased the enduring spirit of Indigenous peoples and their invaluable contributions to the cultural mosaic of Canada.
