The students and staff at Howick Elementary School launched National Indigenous History Month with a special visit from the Ray Deer Family and Friends Dance Group as well as the Manitou Drummers and Singers from Kahnawà:ke on June 4. The school community was invited to join in the morning of traditional drumming, singing, dancing and storytelling. Students also enjoyed a three sisters salad made from corn, beans and squash, which have been grown together for generations and symbolize cooperation and strength.
The activity was opened with a land acknowledgement recited by Principal Caroline Bouchard. This was followed by the customary parade of colours as the dancers entered the performance area. The students listened attentively as the ceremony was then opened in English and in Mohawk. “We dance for the people who cannot. That is what we do for them, and that is what you are going to do today,” said Ray Deer, before inviting student volunteers to join his family as they demonstrated several dances. (SR)