|
Ruby Metchewais Jingle Dance Instructor, Plains Indians Cultural Survival School
"My Native name, Okso'sinaki (Running Buffalo Woman), was given to me by Maggie Black Kettle. I am a Cree from Cold Lake First Nation, Alberta. I have been going to pow-wows since I was very young, but I didn't start dancing until I was twelve years old. Presently, I dance jingle. At pow-wows I get a feeling of wholeness when my family is all together -- everybody helping each other. I believe that respect for yourself and for others is most important. If I can teach my children this early enough, then they are more likely to keep that with them for the rest of their lives." "I dreamed of becoming a dancer since I was a little girl. Ruby helped me realize this by teaching me how to dance the Jingle Dance, a traditional Native woman's dance. When I dance I feel very proud and excited to be living my culture. Dancing gives me the strength to carry on with my culture and to show my kids what my culture means to me. One of my daughters dances and the other sings with the PICSS drummers. My son is really into Native art. I hope that my children will continue with their culture."
|