City hosts very first Community Round Dance & Feast

The City of Saskatoon has come together with many partners to host a community Round Dance and Feast for the very first time this evening at the Cosmo Civic Centre.

A Round Dance is a traditional event in First Nations culture that celebrates community unity through the coming together of the community and its people. The theme for this historic event is miyo-pimatisiwin (MEE-oh pim-MAT-tiss-win), which means the “the good life for all” in the Plains Cree language.

“This Round Dance has come together thanks to a great collaboration of the Indigenous Technical Advisory Group, Elders, city staff, sponsors and partners. I am very grateful for everyone who has helped out,” says Mayor Charlie Clark. “An important part of the journey of Reconciliation is celebration and gathering together - movement and laughter are good medicine. We are living in difficult times, here in Saskatoon and around the world. This is an opportunity to express gratitude for the good in our lives and in our community and to acknowledge the continued work towards a good life for every resident of our city.”

Hosting a Round Dance is meaningful for the City, as it responds to TRC Calls to Action, continues to build relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples and shows the City’s dedication to Reconciliation is not just words on paper.

The City is grateful to have the guidance, support and the ability to learn from ceremonialists, cultural advisors and knowledge keepers for events such as these. There are diverse Indigenous culture and language groups here in Saskatoon with different teachings, perspectives and worldviews.

“In terms of Reconciliation and the Calls to Action, this event is moving the needle forward in a very tangible way,” says Indigenous Initiatives Director, Melissa Cote. “We are so excited to be co-hosting this historical event with Indigenous Technical Advisory Group and support from the City of Saskatoon United Staff for Networking and Strategy – or ‘COUSINS’ Group as we call them.”

A Community Feast took place from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. The Round Dance began at 6 p.m. and will end at midnight.

The City acknowledges Nutrien for providing a financial contribution and others for in-kind contributions. The City would also like to recognize the support of numerous community organizations, volunteers, City staff and individuals that travelled from their home communities outside of Saskatoon to take part in this important event.

For more information, visit saskatooon.ca/rounddance.