The rich tapestry of Indigenous arts and culture will be on full display at the inaugural Garhem Heduwe (Cochrane) Indigenous Arts and Culture Week from March 16 to 23.
A wide variety of events will be held at the Wazin Ichinabi Ti (Oneness Centre) on 1st St, Cochrane Lions Event Centre, and various local Cochrane businesses.
Organizers promise “a profound exploration of Indigenous heritage, creativity, and community spirit in the heart of Cochrane.”
The week is full of events starting on Sunday with hand games at the SLS Centre and a theatre production at Cochrane High School Theatre.
On Monday to Friday various artisans, storytellers and drummers will offer teachings at the Wazin Ichinabi Ti Centre and on Saturday during the day a free event full of dance, music, open mic and artistry (vendors) will be hosted by the Centre.
The evening will be a ticketed event with a meal, stories, further artistry and music and dance from the Stoney River Band.
“In the spirt of embracing, learning from and celebrating Indigenous Art and Culture, I am excited to witness the participation of Cochrane residents and those from surrounding areas in the diverse array of activities planned,” said Terrie Batycki, President of The Wazin Ichinabi Ti Centre.
Batycki lives in Cochrane and is Nêhiyaw-iskwêw (Cree women).
Additionally, this event supports the Call to Action #61 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) for community-controlled healing and reconciliation projects, culture and language revitalization projects, education, and relationship building projects.
“The Îyârhe Nakodabi hold a special place for me as the original caretakers of this land and the place I now call home, Cochrane. Without their profound knowledge, tender care, and deep respect for this land, we would not be blessed to live in such a beautiful place. The Îyârhe Nakodabi are rich in culture and I am filled with anticipation when their art and culture is showcased in the Town of Cochrane and surrounding areas, not just for this week, but forever. The perpetual celebration of their culture is what I eagerly anticipate the most,” Batycki said.
Currently there are approximately 5397 Iyarhe Nakoda living in Stoney Nakoda Nations (2021, Stoney Nakoda Nations) and 1465 residents in Cochrane identifying as Indigenous, Inuit and Metis (2021, Government of Alberta).
Additionally, the Indigenous population percentage of Cochrane greatly increased, at 36.3% in the last five years (2021, Government of Alberta), yet visibility of the immense talent and Indigenous culture is not evidently expressed in our built landscape.
Corporate Sponsorship Opportunities are available for the event with a diversity of activities to support. Contact [email protected] or [email protected] to receive a copy of the sponsorship package and to connect with a board member.
The vision is to start with a modern grassroots event with activities driven by local and surrounding community members, groups and businesses who will showcase Indigenous Art and Culture in various mediums that will educate, provide opportunity, raise awareness, entertain, build bridges and make connections.
There will be traditional ceremonies, art exhibitions, musical performances, and plenty of opportunities to connect, learn, and celebrate the enduring legacy and vibrant future of Indigenous cultures.
For a full list and to register for specific events go to wazinichinabitihouse.ca.
A free Family Dance and Musical Jam is March 23rd, 2024 from 11-3pm at the Cochrane Lions Club Event Centre, 109 5th Ave. W.
The House of Oneness Grand Opening Dinner, Concert and Dance at the Event Centre is March 23 from 5:30 to11pm.
The event will also recognize Buddy Wessley and Bob Bartlett, founders of the Nakota Cochrane Pickin Party.
The Pickin Party was a musical collaboration with a vision to bridge culture and community between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples through a love of music. Performers for the dinner and dance are those honouring Buddy and Bob as friends, colleagues and musicians.
Sponsors are crucial to this significant event, gaining exposure to a broad audience and demonstrating a commitment to cultural celebration and inclusivity.
The Wazin Ichinabi Ti (Oneness Centre) and culture week organizers are always looking to expand their sponsorship community. Contributions can be financial or in-kind or through volunteering.
