The Native side of the Calgary Stampede

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Calgary

For 10 days in July, the city of Calgary pays homage to its history, hosting the Calgary Stampede, billed as the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.

While locals and visitors alike enjoy putting on their Stetsons and immersing themselves in the Western theme, those taking in the Stampede can also get a glimpse of the city's Native roots.

Each year, an Indian village is set up on the Stampede grounds. During the 10-day event, families live in the village in traditional style, giving Stampede visitors a chance to learn about the traditions of the Plains Indians.

Visitors to the village can watch tipi-raising competitions, and be entertained by Native theatre and dance. Native crafts are also demonstrated, along with preparation of traditional foods, including bannock.

The setting also gives visitors an opportunity to just sit and talk to the people living in the village, and enjoy a quiet break from the frantic pace of the rest of the festival.

Each year sees the crowning of an Indian princess, whose role it is to promote the Indian Village and the Stampede during Stampede days and at various special events throughout the year.

To qualify for the Indian Princess pageant, contestants much be between the ages of 18 and 24, and must be a First Nation member of Treaty 7. Organizers also look for a princess who can ride a horse, and who has excellent public speaking skills and likes to meet new people.

This year's Indian princess is the very accomplished Natasha Calf Robe-Ayoungman, from Siksika First Nation. She was crowned Calgary Stampede 2003 Indian Princess on May 4.

Calf Robe-Ayoungman, 21, is currently in her third year of studies at the University of Calgary, and is working toward a PhD in child psychology. She is also serving as the youth chief of the Siksika Nation, representing Siksika young people at various special events.

For more information about the Indian Village, or the 2003 Calgary Stampede, visit the Stampede Web site at www.calgarystampede.com.