Cochrane and nearby Stoney Nakoda communities are hotbeds for Indigenous culture.
There are 5,397 Iyarhe Nakoda residents in the Stoney Nakoda Nations and an additional 1,465 Indigenous, Inuit, and Métis community members in Cochrane, with both populations on the rise.
These communities are eager to share their rich cultures, presenting a tremendous opportunity for learning and exploration.
A prime opportunity to immerse in and celebrate these diverse perspectives is on the horizon!
Mark your calendars for the inaugural Garhem Heduwe (Cochrane) Indigenous Arts and Culture Week, to celebrate these diverse perspectives. It’s set to take place from March 16 to 23.
“In the spirit of embracing, learning from and celebrating Indigenous Art and Culture, I am excited to witness the participation of Cochrane residents!” Terrie Batycki, President of The Wazin Ichinabi Ti Centre, told The Cochrane Eagle.
The week will kick off on Sunday with traditional Hand Games at the SLS Center and a theatre performance from Cochrane High School on Sunday.
Monday through Friday, the Wazin Ichinabi Ti Centre will host an array of artisans, storytellers, and drummers to spark curiosity and insight.
Finally, the cherry on top of the week is a free event at the Cochrane Lions Club Event Centre, focusing on both traditional and modern indigenous dance and music!
This will be followed by a delicious ticketed dinner event at the Wazin Ichinabi Ti (House of Oneness.)
“Wazin Îchinabi Ti is a non-profit society that provides a place of acceptance and well-being and connections for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people.”
Their name is meant to serve as a reminder that “we are one with all creation.”
The dinner aims to “build bridges and bonds” between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples through rocking music!
The dinner is also in honour of Buddy Wessley and Bob Bartlett, founders of the Nakota Cochrane Pickin Party, which was an awesome grassroots movement with the same purpose at heart!
Performances from the Stoney River Band will bring the whole night to a rockin’ crescendo!
As the population of the Iyarhe Nakoda and Indigenous, Inuit, and Métis community members continue to grow in Cochrane, so does the opportunity to celebrate and learn from their rich cultures.
The week promises to foster understanding, appreciation, and connection.
If you want to learn more or grab tickets, you can head here for more info!
Let’s join together to embrace diversity, build bridges, and honour the traditions that enrich our community.
