This year's Calgary Native awareness days draws crowds

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"It doesn't matter whether your relatives came over on the Mayflower, or whether you are a Native," said Winston Wuttunee, a Native folksinger and lecturer. "We're all in the same boat."

Wuttunee was addressing a breakfast crowd of 150 people, Sept. 22 at the Calgary Chamber of Commerce, during Native Awareness Week, Sept. 21 ? 25.

"When the earth was flooded, it wasn't just one color that perished," said Wuttunee. "It was all the colors, animals and trees."

Wuttunee's speech revolved around spiritual conservation and was well received by the approximate 85 per cent non-Native crowd.

"It's what we were hoping for," said Maggie Mowry of Native Outreach and one of the week's organizers. "We were trying to reach out to the non-Native community, trying to familiarize them with the Native lifestyle."

And it was through lectures by Native community leaders and businesspeople, through business and arts and crafts displays and a Native fashion show, that the week's objective of was met.

The fashion show, organized by Yvonne Wuttunee, shared the stage with nine Native businesses and organizations Sept. 23, and was also held at the Chamber of Commerce.

A small but appreciative crowd that showed up to talk to the business people and to view the talents of Native models and fashion designers, including designs by Doreen Healy and Eulalia Running Rabbit.

On Sept. 24, Richard Price, formly of Native Affairs, and now a University of Calgary professor of Native studies spoke to a receptive crowd during a breakfast seminar.

Present throughout the five day event was a selection of Native foods ranging from bannock to buffalo stew with artichokes, as well as a good dose of Native hospitality.

The week wrapped up with arts and crafts show and sale at the Friendship Centre, featuring the handicrafts and art of well known artists including Al Many Bears of the Blackfoot reserve.