Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s wītōkamāhtōtān Indigenous Student Success team hosted the niskipîsim Round Dance last week welcoming the community to honour the awakening of Mother Earth and the Goose Moon, a time that marks the return of the geese and the beginning of spring. People of all ages and backgrounds filled the gymnasium at Prince Albert campus, linking hands and moving together to the beat of the drum.

Round dances are significant in Indigenous culture, bringing people together in the spirit of unity and friendship. This round dance was a celebration of renewal and togetherness.

“The niskipîsim Round Dance offered a space to heal, honour and celebrate. It brought the community together reminding everyone that renewal isn’t just seasonal, it’s human, shared and felt deeply,” says Deanna Kematch, Sask Polytech’s wītōkamāhtōtān Indigenous Student Success director. “Events like this create an environment where our community feels supported, connected and a sense of belonging.”

This round dance reflects Sask Polytech’s commitment to miyo wâhkôhtowin, promoting diversity and inclusivity on its campuses and expressing the positive value and richness of experience that stems from interconnectedness and relationships.

Thank you to the Northern Lights Community Development Corporation for providing grant funding to make this event possible, and to emcee Cal Arcand, stickman Micah Daniels and whipman Eli Dreaver for helping lead the event.

Learn more about Sask Polytech's wītōkamāhtōtān Indigenous Student Success at saskpolytech.ca/indigenous.