Fourth Annual Round Dance at Medicine Hat College on Saturday

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The Indigenous gathering space at MHC was gifted the Ómahksípiitaa, named by Fox in 2022.

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READ: MHC honoured with Indigenous naming ceremony (Sept. 23, 2022)

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The event is hosted in partnership with the Firekeepers Women’s Society, Miywasin Friendship Centre, and Saamis Employment & Training Association. It welcomes community members to join hands and dance in the ceremony.

“I think it’s a beautiful way to show our way of celebration,” said Janice Randhile, manager of Indigenous Engagement and Student Supports at MHC.

“People can expect really good energy, laughter, and a lot of smiles,” she added.

“They’re going to hear the drum beat, which sounds like the heartbeat, some really good songs, and just community holding hands.”

That dancing in a circle reflects moving in the direction of the sun and celebrating the circle of life.

“It’s a meaningful way of coming together and for [the] community to come into Medicine Hat College and to feel the spirit that’s here with all of those that are coming,” Randhile said.

“It’s really about the fun, the spirit of it, and that community piece, bringing all nations together,” she added.

“That’s what I love about the Round Dance, and our ways of doing things, we include everybody.”

The event will take place in the campus gymnasium at 6 p.m. on March 14, guided by emcee Warren One Gun and Graham Rowan, who will serve as the Stickman.

The first twelve singers and drummers to attend will receive an honorarium.

In traditional ceremonies, women wear long skirts or ribbon skirts. Participants are welcome to bring their unique style to the event.

Contests throughout the evening will be for the best ribbon skirt and owl dance.

A pipe ceremony will also take place at 11 a.m. on Saturday.

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(Image Credit: Medicine Hat College)

by Jesse Gill

Fourth Annual Round Dance at Medicine Hat College on Saturday

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