Thanks to all involved for making and uploading this video. It's very moving, and it's clear that the dance forges powerful bonds among those who dance it.
The timing of this dress/tradition emerging was interesting- it appears like a resilient response not just to oppression of traditional dance, but also to the loss and sickness of a devastating war that ravaged communities that were already vulnerable. As I have heard, looking to women for healing power is common in many cultures, and association with rain/water is seen in many cultures as not just feminine, but cathartic (think Shawshank Redemption). The idea that sickness and suffering could be conquered by resilient, determined women (who likely endured a great deal of loss and suffering during that WW1 period) is an empowering concept. As the one dancer said, you are supposed to have “positive thoughts” as you make the dress- that makes sense; it’s supposed to be a positive expression of culture and power that fights misery and negativity. I’m so glad to have learned about the historical context of the dress and dance practice- it makes me appreciate how much it is an expression of powerful femininity in addition to its beautiful artistry. Thank you to the Ojibwa educators for this video!
Beautiful Niitsitapi
Thanks to all involved for making and uploading this video. It's very moving, and it's clear that the dance forges powerful bonds among those who dance it.
The timing of this dress/tradition emerging was interesting- it appears like a resilient response not just to oppression of traditional dance, but also to the loss and sickness of a devastating war that ravaged communities that were already vulnerable. As I have heard, looking to women for healing power is common in many cultures, and association with rain/water is seen in many cultures as not just feminine, but cathartic (think Shawshank Redemption). The idea that sickness and suffering could be conquered by resilient, determined women (who likely endured a great deal of loss and suffering during that WW1 period) is an empowering concept. As the one dancer said, you are supposed to have “positive thoughts” as you make the dress- that makes sense; it’s supposed to be a positive expression of culture and power that fights misery and negativity.
I’m so glad to have learned about the historical context of the dress and dance practice- it makes me appreciate how much it is an expression of powerful femininity in addition to its beautiful artistry. Thank you to the Ojibwa educators for this video!
really important info, thank you to everyone who made this
Awesome video! Thank you so much!
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