‘Why We Dance’ Series: Ava Couchie

In an effort to lift everyone’s spirit during this time where we are all staying home, the Anishinabek News did a call out on social media for dancers to submit their stories.  The summer series is called:  Why We Dance.

Everyone dances for a different reason.  Some are just learning.  Some feel that it’s a connection to their home and culture.  Others dance for healing or to celebrate a personal triumph.  And some are competitive dancers. Whatever the reason, our hearts lift up as we see them enter through the Eastern Doorway and join the circle.  Pow-Wow dances are expressions of self and spirituality, history and culture.  There are many different types of dances and many different styles of regalia to go with the dances.  Dances tell important stories – both personal and cultural. 

The Anishinabek News hopes this series brings you light and hope during these times of uncertainty, and inspiration to keep moving forward on your journey – whatever it may be; or maybe even dance.   

By Ava Couchie, Nipissing First Nation

Wachiiya, Aanii, my name is Ava Couchie and my spirit name is Kish-ikak meaning daylight. I am an oji-cree from the Nipissing First Nation Territory, and I am 12 years old.

Powwows have always been my passion. I have danced in powwows since the time I started walking. Currently, I am an old-style Fancy Dancer. I dance for those who can’t dance like my grandmother, Kimberly Couchie, who was diagnosed with Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis 25 years ago. Within a year, she was confined to a wheelchair and is now unable to dance like she used to. Multiple Sclerosis is an attack on the central nervous system. My grandmother has shown me strength and resiliency. I hope to one day become a doctor and find a cure for MS.

My grandfather, Kirby Mianksum, has always been a big influence on my culture. My family has taken part in Indigenous culture for generations now, and I am now blessed to have it passed down to me.

Miigwech.