A vision for the Chiniki Cultural Centre relates to its First Nation people and strengthening the identity of a community.
The hands-on cultural centre’s grand opening on Tuesday (Sept. 26) along Highway 1 near Morley emphasized honouring Chiniki history for its visitors through art displays, storytelling, music and a First Nation-inspired menu.
Wayne Chiu of Chiniki Trico Partnership’s (CTP) was moved before the opening of the cultural centre.
“I was so touched over the last two weeks about the young people getting together to make the teepees and making sure everything was ready for today,” he said, facing four teepees outside the facility.
Jordie Mark, Chiniki councillor and CTP board member, added: “This is the intent of this facility, the intent to instill pride in our young people and the intent to educate.”
The CTP collaboration is between Chiniki Nation and Calgary’s Trico Group, which started over two decades ago when Trico installed homes on the Nation.
Meaningful employment for Stoney Nation members and cultural education was also envisioned by CTP.
The cultural centre offers its First Nation-inspired cuisine at Stones restaurant, with a gallery shop and indoor/outdoor cultural exhibition area. Special programming will be made available, such as guided nature hikes and learning Stoney legends from elders.
“We’re sitting at the gates of the Canadians Rockies,” said Mark. “Millions drive by every year and they visit Canmore, Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise, yet, they overlook the Stoneys. We felt that we must make our presence known … we’d like to share that history with each and every one of you and why not do it through song and dance and art with this hands-on experience with the Stoney culture?”
Chiniki Chief Aaron Young said without the CTP partnership, the event wouldn’t have been possible to achieve.
He wants the cultural centre to able to contribute back to its people and the province.
“This came about for the intent and future of our people, our young people,” said Young. “We are going through a lot, however, if we instill who we are and how we do things, lead by example, we have an awesome future ahead of us.”
Banff-Cochrane MLA Cameron Westhead called the opening a milestone for the Stoney Nakoda Nation.
He said he senses a desire on the part of Canadians to learn and understand the history of its First Nations.
“The reconciliation process is going to be a long one and it’s not always going to be easy, but it’s important,” said Westhead. “The fact we’re all here today speaks to the fact we’re ready to engage this process here and we take it seriously.”
For more details on activities, visit www.chinikiculturalcentre.com.
