Carlton Indigenous Day Celebrates Culture with Grand Entry and Performances

The annual Carlton Indigenous Day took place on March 4, 2024, at Carlton Comprehensive High School, marking its seventh year with a vibrant Grand Entry. This event celebrates Indigenous culture and aims to foster understanding and appreciation among both Indigenous and non-Indigenous students.

Bonnie Vandale, co-chair of the organizing committee, expressed the significance of the day, stating, “Indigenous Day here at Carlton is an important day for us to pause and to learn and to reflect on the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous peoples on Treaty 6 territory.” The event has grown to become a cherished tradition, providing a platform for education and cultural exchange.

Following the Grand Entry, which was closed to the public except for the ceremony, the Riverside School Choir performed “O Canada” in Cree while Elder Liz Settee offered a prayer. The Prince Albert Raiders acted as flag bearers, with Hubert Clarke carrying the Eagle Staff. The ceremony featured speeches from several notable figures, including Black Lake Chief Coreen Sayazie, City Councillor Darren Solomon, and Sask Rivers Superintendent Jennifer Hingley.

Vandale highlighted the committee’s commitment to inclusivity, noting that the event aims to represent all Indigenous communities. “We always want to include a variety of chiefs from different communities,” she said. This year, the committee made a concerted effort to include voices from the Dene community, responding to feelings of underrepresentation. The inclusion of the Dene chief from Black Lake and Dene language presentations were significant steps in this direction.

The Grand Entry also featured performances that showcased Indigenous traditions. Student Tessa Kakakaway performed a Shawl Dance, while Lacey George presented a Jig. The Prairie Thunder Drum Group played the Honour Song, enhancing the cultural atmosphere of the event.

At the conclusion of the Grand Entry, Vandale was honored with a Star Blanket for her dedication to Indigenous Day as she approaches retirement on July 1, 2026. “I was definitely surprised,” Vandale remarked. “It was an honour and I was just speechless.” She expressed gratitude towards her co-chair, Peggy Boyer, acknowledging their teamwork in organizing the event.

Vandale’s career spans 35 years, including nine years at a reserve school and a role working with female offenders. She has been a part of Carlton Comprehensive High School for 26 years and is passionate about fostering Indigenous education.

The event was emceed by students Makayla Cochrane and Autumn Isbister. Following the Grand Entry, students participated in various breakout sessions, including a square-dancing demonstration with the Northern Prairie Dancers and a performance by the Rez Boys, who also accompanied the dancers.

Vandale commended the growing support for Carlton Indigenous Day, thanking the staff, students, elders, and sponsors who contribute to its success each year. Her reflections on the day’s impact underscore the significance of cultural celebrations within educational settings, highlighting the ongoing need for inclusivity and representation in Indigenous education.