National Indigenous Day at Trout Lake

Today was the first time I attended the events at Trout Lake celebrating National Indigenous Day. Being able to experience and participate in celebrating the diversity of Indigenous peoples across Canada was memorable. From the moment this day began at the Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre to the afternoon festivities held at Trout Lake, there was a strong sense of community, joy, and friendship amongst all peoples. 

Upon arriving at the Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre, we were greeted and welcomed to partake in the breakfast being served. After receiving our food, we watched the opening ceremony wherein individuals from First Nations groups shared traditional dances--each holding significant meaning(s) and stories of Indigenous peoples. The movements displayed represented sacred and valued knowledge of Indigenous peoples, including ways of knowing and being. Witnessing the gathering of individuals from First Nations groups in song and dance was powerful, as it brought to light the unity among all First Nations people. 

Following the opening ceremony, we participated in the Friendship Walk. It was a privilege to be a part of and witness this significant event of the day. There was pride and joy felt from those around me, as people held signs displaying the nation they were from. Throughout the Friendship Walk, singing, the sound of drums, and music filled the air, attracting the attention of people passing and driving by. Being surrounded by the rich sound of music enhanced the strong sense of community and joy this day embodied. 

People proudly holding signs displaying the nation they are from 

When we reached Trout Lake, we explored the area and visited the booths. Many of the booths were selling either beautiful and intricate First Nations jewellery or lovely pieces of Indigenous art. Some festivities and activities that took place at Trout Lake included powwow dances, performances by various artists, and canoeing. 

In the afternoon, individuals from First Nations groups performed powwow dances. It was my first time being a part of this event and seeing powwow regalia up close. How beautiful the pieces of regalia were and ways in which they were decorated! Through watching the powwow dances, I found it particularly interesting and special how each piece of music was danced differently by each individual--showcasing distinct footwork. Additionally, seeing the joy and pride in their faces while dancing revealed the importance the movements held. As part of the powwow, there was a potato dance, which involved a man and a woman dancing to music while holding a potato between their heads. This was fun to watch as each duo danced to the music while trying not to drop the potato! It was an exciting time for all as we cheered on each duo!

Powwow dance being performed

Today was a joyous day and highlighted the unity among individuals from First Nations groups. From beginning to end, there was a strong sense of community. Everywhere we went, people welcomed and greeted each other, whether it was through a simple greeting or a hug. The sharing of song and dance revealed Indigenous ways of knowing and being, that has been passed down from generation to generation. It was a privilege being able to experience this momentous day, where Indigenous knowledge was made known through actions and words--whether it was through song and dance, words spoken, or conversations had with people around me.