The cooler fall weather has arrived in Halifax, but Dal’s Studley Quad promises to be a hot spot this Wednesday when the university holds its 14th annual Mawio’mi.
The celebration of Mi’kmaw dance, craft, food and culture promises to foster incredible community vibes in the heart of Dal’s campus, bringing Indigenous and non-Indigenous folks together for a day full of sharing, learning, and festivities.
This year’s event will also highlight the essential role of youth in the celebration, featuring junior dancers alongside senior dancers.
Michele Graveline, an advisor at Dalhousie’s Indigenous Student Centre, stresses the importance of youth participation.
“It seems really important to have young people involved, coming up and developing themselves as dancers, and maybe future Dal students — who knows, right?” says Graveline, a long-time organizer of the on-campus event.
Celebrating culture in the heart of Halifax
While it started out as a student-focused event, the Mawio’mi has become a vibrant community celebration for all that reflects aspects of Mi'kmaq culture while embracing the urban environment of Halifax.
This unique blend creates an atmosphere where attendees can engage with the rich heritage of the Mi'kmaq people in a modern context. Attendees will have the chance to enjoy traditional dance performances that showcases both junior and senior dancers, browse more than 30 vendor booths, and explore information tables, all while savouring a delicious catered lunch.
Watch out for the incredible vendors this year, featuring stalls where you can find something you love.
"I encourage everyone to visit and shop from local artisans, celebrating the unique products they offer. It's a great opportunity to support our community" says Graveline.
Embracing community at Mawio’mi
This year, the Mawio'mi introduces new features that deepen the connection to Indigenous practices. A sacred fire will be lit, allowing attendees to participate in smudging and make offerings. Various community service providers and educational tables will be set up, offering opportunities to learn about Mi’kmaq culture, ecology, and community resources.
"As participants come together for this unique event, Dillon Hughson, the other advisor at the Indigenous Student Centre, hopes that you leave with more than a full belly.
"This focus for this year's Mi'kmaw History Month is Mijipjewey Na Mawa'luksi'k - Food Gathers us Together. Joining for a meal is a way to bring everyone in, but our hope is for you to leave with a new hunger for continued learning and understanding of Mi'kmaw culture."
With drum beats echoing in the air and the spirit of community in full bloom, this year’s Mawio'mi is set to be an unforgettable experience.
Here's how the day's events will unfold:
10 a.m. — Vending opens
11 a.m.-1 p.m. — Lunch is served
Noon — Grand Entry
12 p.m.-3:30 p.m. — Powwow and dancing
Location: Studley Quad. Rain location: McInnes Room, Student Union Building
