Indigenous feet have been dancing on the land for generations. A way to honour Indigenous culture and spirituality, dance is a vital part of tradition, connection and social structure within communities. In Atlantic Canada, while there are increasing opportunities for youth to learn traditional Indigenous dances, those seeking contemporary dance instruction from Indigenous teachers in jazz, hip-hop or tap are out of luck.

Canada’s aging population is putting growing strain on healthcare systems, but for Indigenous seniors, the challenges run much deeper. While new programs are emerging to support seniors across the country, many fail to reflect the cultural realities and lived experiences of Indigenous Peoples.

Considered the “Pow Wow” of Métis communities, Rendezvous are some of the largest gatherings in Métis culture. Throughout generations, Métis Peoples have gathered to socialize, reconnect, pass down traditional knowledge and language skills, and compete in fun competitions such as traditional fiddling, jigging and log splitting. However, the impacts of colonialism have led to the suffering of Métis identity and a loss of connection to community and culture.

Considered the “Pow Wow” of Métis communities, Rendezvous are some of the largest gatherings in Métis culture. Throughout generations, Métis Peoples have gathered to socialize, reconnect, pass down traditional knowledge and language skills, and compete in fun competitions such as traditional fiddling, jigging and log splitting. However, the impacts of colonialism have led to the suffering of Métis identity and a loss of connection to community and culture.

The earth beneath our feet has been travelled by our ancestors for countless generations. Seeds have been replanted, grass has withered and regrown, seasons have come and gone, and Indigenous Peoples have continued to protect, care and honour their sacred lands. As modernity and colonization have taken their toll on traditional territories, the Indigenous Peoples of Xa'xtsa First Nation in British Columbia are looking to reclaim their title of stewards of the land.

As humans, no matter where we find ourselves, we all just want to belong. This is especially true for Métis youth, many of whom have been physically or culturally displaced from their traditional roots. Belonging to a largely misunderstood ancestral group, combined with the complex issue of Métis identity, these young people feel especially isolated as they try to find their place in the world. Providing a pathway to cultural connection is critical to instilling pride in young Indigenous Peoples.

Food, dance and shared traditions are important medicine to heal from trauma. For Indigenous Peoples, traditional gatherings such as Pow Wows hold special significance, offering a chance to reconnect and celebrate ceremonies that were nearly lost.

2024 marks a milestone for the Niagara Regional Native Centre as it prepares to host the 10th annual Nurturing Our Roots Pow Wow. Through dances, songs, ceremonies, and stories, the Pow Wow celebrates togetherness, strengthens community ties, and promotes Indigenous heritage, identity, and culture. Over the past decade, Nurturing Our Roots has become a much-loved tradition that draws people of all backgrounds to come together and share in the experience.

The Talitha Koum Society (TK) in Coquitlam, BC has been dedicated to empowering women struggling with addiction, helping them build healthy and fulfilling lives. Through its supportive housing, 12-step programming and life-skills training, TK provides women with the tools they need to recover and thrive.

The St'át'imc Declaration Gathering is an annual event that brings together the St'át'imc people, a First Nation located in the southern Coast Mountains and Fraser Canyon region of British Columbia.