June 30th, 2015 Last Updated on: June 30th, 2015
Photo by Jakub Hałun
How amazing would this be? In a story from the Chronicle Journal, they talk about a youth group from Thunder Bay, Ontario that wants to send 10 Aboriginal youth to Jiaozou, China, in August to attend an international tai chi competition festival.
Sister Cities committee member Peng You said the trip would help First Nations youth see beyond Thunder Bay.
“We want more young people to see their future, to open their eyes,” said You. “We want to see up a stage on the Great Wall, an international stage.”
After the journey, a delegation from Jiaozou will travel to Thunder Bay.
You said there is a sense of mystery around Canada and First Nations people to Chinese youth and when they come to the city, they won’t just stay in Thunder Bay, but visit remote communities as well.
Fort William First Nation is sponsoring one of its residents, Bess Legarde, for the trip and the dancer said although she’s nervous for the long flight, she’s excited for the two cultures to interact.
“Being the first powwow to happen on the Great Wall is pretty ideal,” she said. “I’m looking to learn more about their traditions. . . . Seeing their landscape, seeing how life is on a day-to-day, those are the things I’m looking forward to.”
I hope these youth get the funding for this. Talk about a lifetime opportunity!
For more information on how to help sponsor a delegate, you can contact the Aboriginal Liaison office at the City of Thunder Bay at (807) 625-2146.
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