Children’s dance competition in Standoff helps promote youth mental health
The easing of what has seemed like endless restrictions and rules is a cause for celebration. Getting out to dance is much-needed for our physical and mental health, and children on the Blood Tribe First Nation got that opportunity Thursday morning. The children’s dance competition is one of nine events that are part of the Blood Tribe’s Honouring Life project, which aims to improve mental health in their youth.
The competition is not only fun for the kids, it is an exercise in freedom to dance. Something that Indigenous people have not always had. Merle Spear Chief is a Residential School survivor where dancing was not allowed. She says it is important for new generations to know their identity.
