Medicine Hat College will host its fourth annual Round Dance next month in the campus gymnasium.--FILE PHOTO
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The community has been invited to Medicine Hat College to participate in its fourth annual Round Dance next month.
The Round Dance traditional ceremony will take place oMarch 14 beginning at 6 p.m. in the Medicine Hat College gymnasium and will be emceed by Warren One Gun and Graham Rowan.
A Round Dance is a significant Indigenous social and healing ceremony where participants hold hands and dance in a circular motion, often with a side-to-side step.
“I think it’s a beautiful way to show our way of celebration,” says Janice Randhile, manager of Indigenous Engagement and Student Supports. “People can expect really good energy, laughter and a lot of smiles. They’re going to hear the drum beat, which sounds like the heartbeat, some really good songs and just the community holding hands.”
The event is held in partnership with the Firekeepers Women’s Society, Miywasin Friendship Centre and Saamis Employment and Training Association.
Women are encouraged to wear long skirts or ribbon skirts, however all participants are welcome to bring their unique style to the event that will include a contest for best ribbon skirt and owl dance.
“It’s a meaningful way of coming together and for the community to come into Medicine Hat College and to feel the spirit that’s here with all of those that are coming,” adds Randhile. “It’s really about the fun, the spirit of it and that community piece, bringing all nations together.”
The first 12 singers and drummers to attend the event will receive an honorarium.
