University ceremony honours Indigenous Peoples Day

By Justin Sibbet - Lethbridge Herald Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on June 21, 2023.

Herald photo by Justin Sibbet Visitors and staff join hands in a round dance a day ahead of National Indigenous Peoples Day on Tuesday at the University of Lethbridge.

A ceremonial smudge kicked off several events to commemorate National Indigenous Peoples Day at the University of Lethbridge Tuesday.

The ceremonial smudge was followed by a variety of activities, including medicine bag making, a round dance, Indigenous games and a teepee raising.

The smudging was ceremoniously blessed by Francis First Charger before traditional songs were performed by the father and son duo, Julius and Troy Delaney, who are regularly seen drumming at events in the city throughout the year.

They performed multiple traditional songs at the university, and led a round dance in the University Hall atrium.

Julius said it is an honour to share his culture and music with those who attend the events.

“We have a rich history of our drumming and dancing,” said Julius.

And for Troy, performing with his father is a great honour.

“This is my teacher, he taught me the songs, he taught me the stories,” said Troy. “I learned every day and I’m still learning.”

Julius agreed that it is great to perform with his son, said the fact their work will be recorded forever is also an honour.

“It’s always going to be him and I,” said Julius.

He said such events and celebrations will live on forever and although reconciliation is advancing, there is still significant work to be done.

“The schools, I think they need to really have a class designed specifically for First Nations and Indigenous people. “We can’t just celebrate one day.”

Julius said he wants to see Indigenous teachers rather than “somebody who’s just read the book,” because it will enable greater learning.

“I think we need more people like myself…to really give our stories about who we are.”

He said it’s important because there are so many different groups of Indigenous people who are all distinct from one another.

However, with events aiding the progression of relationships between all parties in Canada, one employee at the university says reconciliation is closer than ever.

Lindi Shade, manager of Iikaisskini Indigenous services at the university, said the events Tuesday bring the community one step closer to reconciliation.

“It’s a real honour to be able to work with our colleagues across campus as well as our students,” said Shade.

She said it’s all about building relationships and honouring Indigenous culture.

“National Indigenous People’s Day is really about celebration, it’s about honour, it’s about reconciliation and it really is a step forward.”

Another representative of the university, Maleeka Thomas, who is the current student council president, says the month of June is important for everyone, not just the Indigenous people.

“We each share a collective responsibility towards truth and reconciliation,” said Thomas. “Indigenous history month serves as an opportunity to recognize and honour the resilience, wisdom and enduring spirit of Indigenous communities.”

There will be several events at Galt Gardens, the Lethbridge Public Library and city hall today and later this week as National Indigenous Peoples Month continues.