HANNAHVILLE, Mich. (WZMQ) – Hannahville Indian School hosted its annual Spring Round Dance Friday afternoon.
“Round dance was traditionally something that came from Canada, but now it’s integrated into the U.S. more,” said Hannahville Indian Community Culture Director Molly Meshigaud. “It’s a social gathering.”
For Hannahville students, it has become a sign of a long-awaited break from their studies.
“For the last seven years, we’ve been having this every Friday before spring break starts just to integrate more culture in this school,” Meshigaud said.
Although it may not have looked like spring outside, Meshigaud says it was the perfect day for the Round Dance.
“Spring when there’s still snow on the ground is usually when round dances happen, so good thing we got snow last night so we can have the round dance today!” she said.
While the round dance, songs, and drums are all Native traditions, everyone is welcome to participate.
“In the last several years, a lot of the teachers have been more involved,” Meshigaud said. “You’ll see them wearing ribbon skirts or ribbon shirts today, so that’s really nice that the outside community is also embracing our culture.”
The Hannahville Indian Community hopes to continue sharing and celebrating that culture at future round dances and other events.
“When we’re dancing, a lot of times we’ll pray for people, pray for healing, but also just creating that good energy, those positive feelings,” said Meshigaud. “It’s more just something to bring us all together and celebrate.”
Attendees also enjoyed a feast of traditional foods before the round dance began. Click here to see footage from the 2023 Spring Round Dance.
