Calgary celebrates Native Awareness Week

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Natives and non-Natives will gather in a celebration of Indian culture during the seventh annual Native Awareness Week in Calgary held May 15 to 21.

The theme of this year's event -- Honoring the Staff of Life: Unity, Strength, Wisdom, Respect -- was chosen in recognition of the birth of a white buffalo in Wisconsin last August. The white buffalo has been received by Native people as a symbol of hope.

Carol Carpenter of Calgary Aboriginal Awareness Society said the intent

is consistent with the society's slogan: Bridging the Gap.

"I think it exposes non-Natives and all groups to the Indian culture and it encourages dialogue," she added. The week aims to promote good will and understanding.

This year the week will kick off the ceremony dedicating Deerfoot Trail to the patron saint of plains travel, Aissikotoyomaahkaa in Siksika, or Deerfoot in English. The ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. May 15 at the junction of Deerfoot Trail and Highway 22X.

The event also coincides with "Through Elders' Eyes," at the Glenbow Museum which examines Native stereotypes in the media and advertising.