Youth4Youth Canada facilitated a workshop on Métis music, history, and culture at the Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health. The event was held in the Grand Gathering Space and targeted youth aged 7 to 12 from the Wabano Summer Camp.
We expected about 30 participants, but attendance reached 65. This included summer camp youth, 15 children from the Early Years program, 20 community seniors, and several Wabano staff. Among them were Chocolate Mentor Pierrette Vezina and former Wasanabin Coordinator Marie-Claude Charland.
The main activity was Métis jigging dances. We performed a few traditional jigs to show their rhythm. Then, we taught basic steps, and participants of all ages joined in. They moved together, laughed, and smiled, which built a sense of community.
The workshop covered more than dance. Participants learned about the role of music and dance in Métis traditions and gained appreciation for Indigenous heritage. We are grateful for the opportunity to share this experience and look forward to more events that promote understanding and appreciation of Indigenous cultures. Thank you to everyone who participated and made this event so special!
