Today is National Indigenous Peoples Day, and Strathmore is lucky to have Siksika Nation as neighbours to help celebrate.  

Ribbon skirts, like the one Smith is wearing, help bring awareness to Indigenous culture. Photo courtesy of Astokomii Smith.

Astokomii Smith is the Indigenous Liaison for the Town of Strathmore. She explained that this day can be a day to learn, appreciate and honour Indigenous culture. 

“I would say the best way to celebrate is to learn about the history and the culture,” she explained. “I know there's a lot of resources that you can find online which include books, videos, and podcasts. You can also celebrate by supporting indigenous artists and businesses. I know there's a lot in Treaty 7 area.” 

In Strathmore, Trellis is hosting an online event today where a Blackfoot elder will be sharing stories about his culture. Strathmore Library is also having an event in the evening where Smith and a couple of other guest speakers will be sharing lots of information about Indigenous culture.  

While there is much to love about Indigenous culture, there is one part that is close to Smith’s heart. 

“One of the things about my culture that I've always loved and enjoyed from a very young age is pow-wow dancing. I started dancing when I was about four or five years old, and I just love how we can come together and celebrate our culture or dances through our songs and healing too.” 

“I was always told that when we danced, we danced for those who can’t, for those who are struggling physically, mentally, emotionally. I think now, more than ever, we need that and at one point indigenous people we weren't allowed to practice our culture, let alone dance.” 

When asked what she hoped was in the future for Indigenous culture, Smith responded by saying that she hopes people can continue to learn and be kind to one another.  

“I hope that we can continue to embrace our culture. I hope that our tradition stays strong. I know, most of our traditions have been around for so many years, and it's good that we still have them despite things like residential schools happening. I encourage Indigenous people to embrace that part of their identities and encourage non-indigenous peoples to learn about it as well.”