A Fort William First Nation dancer has been chosen among local delegates to participate in the first-ever powwow on the Great Wall of China.
Bess Ann Legarde will be one of 10 First Nations dancers hoping to travel to Jiaozou in August. The historic powwow will be the opening ceremony for China's largest international Tai Chi competition.
Legarde regards herself among the most experienced dancers in her community, mentoring and encouraging young people to participate.
"It's going to be amazing," she said. "I'm actually looking to learn about their traditions. I haven't read up a lot on it but seeing their landscapes, seeing how life is on the day-to-day, those are the kinds of things I'm looking forward to."
Fort William First Nation Chief Peter Collins was part of a Sister City delegation that visited Gifu City, Japan. He advised Legarde that culture shock is very real as he endorsed her involvement.
"Hopefully it inspires her. She's a very positive woman now so hopefully, it guides her in a direction to educate herself or look for different initiatives for herself."
Chinese native and member of Thunder Bay Sister Cities Committee Peng You first approached the Aboriginal Liason Unit with the idea two years ago. Jiaozou is not among Thunder Bay's Sister Cities but the two communities have been working toward establishing a formal relationship.
"We thought, it's one of the best things, to bring a young powwow group to China to showcase the culture and also show the confidence and also encourage many young people to look at the big picture for a bright future," said You.
The City of Thunder Bay is looking to raise $3,500 per delegate, which will cover travel visa, air and ground transportation, accommodation and meals. That's on top of $25,000 that must be raised by July 17th. Those looking to sponsor delegates can contact the Aboriginal Liaison office.
