‘Why We Dance’ Series: Gerry Courchene

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 Gerry Courchene, Sagkeeng First Nation

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.

I dance because I feel alive.

Aahoo, miigwetch!