11/1/2023 0 Comments What does it mean to belong?Brene Brown says that 'belonging does not equal fitting in' in order to belong we do not need to change who we are. When we are accepted just the way we are then we truly belong. This is my first children's book and was published in May 2023. The story itself however has been a long time coming. It is inspired by the true story of how my oldest son (a teenager now!) found belonging in daycare as one of the only Indigneous children who attended there. A transformational experience for both of us and a story that still inspires me in the work I do today. If a child who is learning to walk and talk knows whether they belong or not, then I know that sharing culture, knowledge, and traditions is invaluable in the world. I was able to to share our story at a recent keynote presentation for a global education conference and hope to continue to encourage more people to learn about creating spaces that promote true belonging, not 'fitting in'. Having worked in the education system for over a decade (and recieved an award for my work) I know that belonging is an essential part of the curriculum for younger grades. Some of the performances and speaking engagements I have done so far in 2023 include the Calgary Public Library, South Country Fair, virtual events, libraries, schools and community events across Alberta. Children's Literature has given "We Belong to the Drum" a 5/5 rating!
"This title exemplifies the importance of inclusion and belonging and offers a sense of community, whether it be with family, at cultural events or at daycare. The illustrations are bright, vivid, and joyful and they serve as a wonderful supplement to the text. Recommended for school, home and public libraries." - Canadian Children’s Book News (https://bookcentre.ca/canadian-childrens-book-news) *You can purchase my book here.
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Nehiawsko Pikiskwew'Cree Woman Speaking' is a space to share my voice. My goal is to spread awareness and share wisdom as I learn and grow as a dancer, choreographer, and woman. My passion is to show the healing power of dance and culture. I love learning from elders, experience, and research and being able to synthesize Native and non-Native ways of knowing! Archives
November 2023
CategoriesAll Cara Mumford Cree Hoop Dance Idle No More Indigenous Dance International Women's Day 2017 Life Givers Missing And Murdered Aboriginal Women Native Hoop Dance Native Women Nehiyawak Reconciliation Resilience Rulan Tangen Sacred Hoop Sisters In Spirit Stolen Sisters Sugarray Robinson When It Rains World Championship Hoop Dance Contest |