Why We Dance’ Series: Gerry Courchene – Anishinabek News

My name is Gerry Courchene and I’m a Traditional Dancer from Sagkeeng First Nation, Manitoba, Ojibway/Saulteaux Tribe. I’m a recovering alcoholic/drug addict and have been sober for two years now.

I started dancing for my healing and recovery. I feel so alive and proud when I dance. I dance for healing and the people that struggle with addictions and mental health and people that can’t dance— I love it.

I’m a school bus driver these days. My dancing and culture teachings and ceremonies have played a big part of my recovery. I’m grateful and thankful. My life has changed a lot since I started dancing. Wow! I can’t believe it. I found where I belong and myself. When I’m dancing, it’s like I’m dancing with my ancestors— it feels amazing. I used to go to pow wows in the past, but I was outside of the circle, too shy.

Not understanding why I would cry when I watched the Grand Entry. Little did I know that I belonged there. Now I do. I remember my first Grand Entry in full regalia. Oh my, I wasn’t shy anymore. I felt proud and a sense of belonging. I cried.

Read More: http://anishinabeknews.ca/2020/07/13/why-we-dance-series-gerry-courchene/