Community invited to join Round Dance at Medicine Hat College
Medicine Hat College (MHC) is hosting its third annual Round Dance, in partnership with the Firekeepers Women’s Society, Miywasin Friendship Centre, and Saamis Employment & Training Association on March 1, 2025.
The round dance is a traditional Blackfoot ceremony held at the beginning of each year that promotes healing, strength, and connection. Led by emcee, Tony Delaney, and guided by David “Monster” Spotted Eagle as the Stickman, participants can expect to join hands and dance as a community.
Nicki Eastly, student services specialist at MHC, says the round dance is an opportunity for community to learn about aspects of Indigenous culture in an immersive way.
“For some of our community members, this is an opportunity to learn about their own culture and history, while connecting with those who share similar backgrounds,” explains Eastly. “We encourage all of our community members to attend the ceremony with an open mind and experience this traditional way of knowing and being.”
Director of community engagement at MHC, Jennifer Kerslake, adds that the round dance is an important event at the college and its movement toward reconciliation.
“It’s a privilege to work closely with community organizations, Elders, and knowledge keepers to provide opportunities to learn about Indigenous culture in Medicine Hat,” says Kerslake. “Taking part in events such as our annual round dance helps bring our community together and we are proud to be a part of it.”
The event will take place in the campus gymnasium at 6 p.m. on March 1. The first twelve singers and drummers at the event will receive an honorarium.
Aligning with tradition, women are encouraged to wear long skirts, however attendees are welcome to wear what they feel most comfortable to dance in. Contests for the best ribbon skirt and owl dance will be held throughout the evening.