A winter gathering took shape at Carleton University on Feb. 21 as students, faculty, staff and community members came together for a Round Dance, a First Nations ceremony grounded in unity, healing and cultural connection. Hosted by Carleton’s Centre for Indigenous Support and Community Engagement (CISCE), the evening offered space for celebration, learning and reflection, fostering a sense of togetherness while strengthening Indigenous representation on campus.
“By honouring ancestors, sharing teachings and nurturing emotional, spiritual and physical well‑being, the gathering served as a meaningful expression of Carleton’s ongoing commitment to relationship‑building and deeper understanding of Indigenous cultures,” said Theresa Hendricks, Acting Assistant Director, Operations in Carleton’s Centre for Indigenous Support and Community Engagement. “For many participants, the event offered a chance to reconnect with culture and spirit; for others, it was an introduction to Indigenous ceremony and a meaningful step toward understanding and relationship‑building.”
The event also advanced Call #12 of the Kinàmàgawin Report, which outlines a need to host campus-wide Indigenous events to foster relationship‑building, learning and appreciation of Indigenous cultures and ways of knowing.
The evening opened with a pipe ceremony and prayer from Elders Louella Tobias and Thomas Louttit, grounding the space in respect and intention. As singers and drummers took their place at the centre of the room, their voices and rhythms signaled the start of the dance. Participants joined hands and formed a circle around them, stepping to the beat of the drum, representing the heartbeat of Mother Earth. The group then moved to the left in alignment with the sun’s rotation, a movement believed to bring healing. The emcee explained protocols, shared teachings and ensured everyone understood certain songs carried specific meanings and when other songs were meant for particular groups.
Throughout the night, the Round Dance reflected both tradition and resurgence. Once primarily solemn memorial ceremonies honouring loved ones who had passed on, Round Dances have evolved into vibrant winter gatherings that celebrate life, community and cultural strength. They remain open to all First Nations, Métis, Inuit and non‑Indigenous participants alike offering a space to learn, connect and experience a First Nations ceremony firsthand.
A feast followed the dancing, with Elders and Knowledge Carriers being served first in keeping with cultural protocols. Opportunities to support Indigenous artisans added to the sense of community and generosity that defines the ceremony.
The Round Dance created a visible and welcoming space for First Nations cultures, demonstrating support for Indigenous students, staff and faculty while inviting the broader Carleton community to learn and participate. The gathering strengthened connections across cultures, honoured ancestors and brought warmth and togetherness to the heart of winter.
