A year ago, David Brass was strolling through the downtown library in Regina when he heard the rhythmic beats of powwow drums echoing through the building. Intrigued, he followed the sounds to the community area, where he was warmly greeted by the co-ordinator of the Regina Public Library’s Culture Connect: Indigenous Teachings program.
Since then, Brass and his daughter have been regular attendees at the weekly drop-in sessions, where they have found a supportive and inclusive community that has made them feel embraced. Brass expressed that his daughter has thrived in the program, enjoying the dances, drums, and the newfound friendships she has formed.
Brass noted the positive impact of the program on many individuals, even those who come just to observe. He shared, “I’ve seen people come in and they’ve healed and they leave differently. They seem like they leave more full. They come in empty, bent over looking sad, but they leave full, chest up, you know, so it’s all good.”
Phyllis Littletent and her mother initiated the Culture Connect program four years ago in the North Central community with a focus on healing. Despite her mother’s illness halting her involvement, Littletent continued to lead the program, recognizing its transformative effects on participants.
The program offers a welcoming environment for individuals to engage with Indigenous cultural dances and songs without fear of judgment. It aims to provide a space for healing, learning, and rediscovering cultural roots in a relaxed setting.
A key feature of the program is a monthly mini-powwow that celebrates children by inviting them to dance with or without traditional attire, promoting inclusivity and respect for all backgrounds. Littletent emphasized that the core objective of the program is to facilitate healing through the power of song and dance.
Over the years, the program has grown significantly, prompting a move to the downtown central library branch to accommodate more participants and enhance community involvement. Littletent expressed gratitude to the Regina Public Library for providing a space where healing can take place, leaving a positive energy behind after each session.
Taylor Soderberg, a Métis citizen and the Regina Public Library’s safe and welcoming specialist, commended the program’s presence in their downtown space, highlighting the importance of such inclusive programming.
The Culture Connect: Indigenous Teachings program continues to foster a safe and healing environment for individuals to engage with and learn about Indigenous cultural practices through dance and music.
