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From left to right Mrs. Winter Festival Maureen McKay, Chief Tammy Cook-Searson, Eleanor Hegland, Rodney Hegland, Counc. Linda A. Charles, and Mr. Winter Festival Gabe McKay. (Facebook/Cook-Searson Tammy Jim)
community

LLRIB to host Healing Round Dance annually for next four years

Mar 10, 2025 | 2:31 PM

The Lac La Ronge Indian Band (LLRIB) hosted its first-ever Healing Round Dance on March 1.

The event, organized in partnership with leadership, Woodland Wellness Centre and LLRIB Education, marked the first time the band has held a round dance. The gathering was well attended and featured guidance from Elders and knowledge keepers from Sturgeon Lake First Nation leading the ceremony.

“We are honoured to learn from our neighbours who shared their teachings with us,” said Chief Tammy Cook-Searson in a recent community notice.

“This gathering created a space for connection, renewal and hope. Bringing community members together in this way strengthens our sense of community and helps us move forward in healing.”

The round dance, which will be held annually for the next four years, included traditional foods such as moose meat, fish, and duck soup.

The release notes LLRIB leadership remains focused on addressing urgent community needs. Some examples in doing so include weekly meetings, harm reduction initiatives, emergency response improvements, and community safety programs. It adds leadership is actively working alongside health professionals, law enforcement, social services, and other key partners to ensure long-term solutions for the well-being of all members.

LLRIB council wants to extend their deepest gratitude to everyone contributing to these efforts.

“I want to take a moment to thank every single person who has been working behind the scenes and on the front lines,” Cook-Searson remarked.

“Our health workers, first responders, support staff, Elders, and community volunteers have been working around the clock —your dedication does not go unnoticed. You are the backbone of our communities and we are so grateful for the work you do. Thank you for your kindness, your strength and your dedication to our community members–you are making a difference every day.”

derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com