Indigenous Education and Cultural Services hosts first Round Dance

On February 20, Indigenous Education and Cultural Services (IECS)—in partnership with the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, the City of Oshawa, Region of Durham, Pickering Public Library, City of Pickering – Indigenous Relationship Building Circle, and EarlyON Child and Family Centre—hosted Ontario Tech’s first Round Dance at Charles Hall.

The Round Dance brought community members together in ceremony, reflection and celebration. Traditionally held during the winter months, Round Dances are centred on togetherness, building relationships, reconnecting, and honouring loved ones and those who have passed.   

The evening opened with a Pipe Ceremony and feast, inviting ancestors to be present. A Sacred Fire was also held outside of the Baagwating Indigenous Student Centre for the duration of the gathering.

Community members filled Charles Hall with laughter, food, drumming, songs, dancing and medicine. The sound of drums echoing through the spaces was a powerful reminder of the importance of honouring Indigenous traditions on campus, and creating a space for community healing and solidarity.

IECS extends a heartfelt “Chi Miigwech” (thank you) to the many individuals who helped bring the gathering together in a special way:

Masters of Ceremony:

• Beega Johnson, Stickman
• Darren “DJ” McGregor, MC and Pipeman
• Elder Tom Cowie

Fire Keeper:

• Ronald Leaman

Singers:

• Gerry McComb
• Jared Big Canoe
• Jayden Wemigwans
• Kaelen Pelletier
• Matthew Lavallee
• Nathan Roy
• Taylor Musgrave

Special guests:

• Doug Jamieson, Oshawa FireWolves goalie
• Jessica McKenzie, former Miss Indigenous Canada

Catering:

• IndigiNISH Catering

Volunteers:

• Gracie Danis
• Mark Sayers
• Eloghosa Avenbuan

IECS hopes this inaugural Round Dance will become an annual gathering at Ontario Tech, continuing to honour our loved ones and strengthen relationships across campus and the broader community.