Drumming for Reconciliation in Peterborough
The hypnotic sound of drumming has been bringing people together since time immemorial and in First Nations’ culture the drumbeat represents the universal heartbeat of Mother Earth. The drum’s rhythmic vibration not only lifts our spirits but has been proven to help reduce stress, and its powerful sound has the uncanny ability to connect people regardless of race or creed.
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Singing and dancing are also an integral part of Indigenous culture and what better way to unite the people of Peterborough in the spirit of reconciliation than to brighten an otherwise dull afternoon in May with a stunning display by traditional dancers in colourful regalia and to feel the drums reverberating through the centre of Confederation Square.
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) published its Calls to Action in 2015 to address the legacy of residential schools and to actively begin repairing the harm caused to the original peoples of Canada by colonization.
Reconciliation is defined as “the restoration of friendly relations” and as people all over the country work towards a renewal of the troubled relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people, Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre is providing local students with a fun way to learn about Indigenous culture, knowledge, and the history of the land while commemorating the 4th Anniversary of the TRC.
The collaboration between the Friendship Centre, local school boards, surrounding First Nations communities, and other organizations such as PACE, Public Energy, and LEAP Peterborough offered an interactive youth program and an opportunity for the public to join this free community celebration. The kids took part in various activities throughout the day and were invited to join the dancers for the Intertribal dance.
Special guests at the second annual Nogojiwanong Reconciliation Gathering included Missy Knott, Charging Horse Singers, Wshkiihimang Singers, as well as the Red Path Singers and Dancers, and the Hiawatha Youth Dancers.
Moira Gale
