The rhythmic beat of an animal skin drum echoed. Participants bowed their heads in traditional prayer. A tipi stood as a proud symbol.
This was the scene outside the Flin Flon Aboriginal Friendship Centre as residents assembled to laud First Nations culture at last Saturday’s National Aboriginal Day celebration.
“It’s a day of solidarity when all of us as Aboriginal people and Indigenous people can celebrate our culture, our language, bring back the old ways and teach our young ones how to come together as a community,” said musician Tracy Bone prior to getting on stage.
Bone, a country singer-songwriter from southern Manitoba’s Keeseekoowenin Ojibway First Nation, headlined an afternoon of lively entertainment.
With her large wooden guitar a sharp contrast to her petite frame, the award-winning Bone pleasantly surprised the crowd with her powerful voice.
Bone, whose youthful appearance belies her 38 years, said her songs touch on life lessons while advocating love, resiliency and empowerment.
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While the day focused on Aboriginal pride, it was also an opportunity for residents of other racial backgrounds to learn more about First Nations culture.
In all roughly 500 people passed through the Friendship Centre parking lot, much to the delight of organizer Jeremiah Herrmann-Garay.
“I got really good feedback from the public and the staff at the Friendship Centre,” said Herrmann-Garay, the centre’s program and events coordinator.
Starting in early afternoon and running for four-and-a-half hours, the celebration featured musicians, youth drummers, hoop dancers, square dancers and fiddlers.
Activities such as face-painting, crafts and games helped keep children occupied.
Margaret Head-Steppan, cultural advisor for the Friendship Centre, led opening and closing prayers.
The demand for burgers and hot dogs grilled by the Lions Club was evident by lineups of hungry attendees.
