June: A Month in Review
June is always a busy month for the Stardale girls but we took it to another level this year with some incredible activities and performances. With everything from the official release of Hope Feeds the Heart as an official single to performances in honour of National Indigenous History Month, our calendars were packed with amazing activities we're excited to share!
Drumming in the Park and Hot Dog Roast
While preparing for their upcoming performances, the girls took the opportunity to get outside and enjoy the sunshine during drumming practices. We had gorgeous weather that made for some lovely evening practices in Calgary parks and perfect hot dog grilling weather.
Film Screenings Project Coming to a Close
This month marked the end of our film screenings project and we finished off with a variety of screenings. We were honoured to be able to give people an opportunity to engage and learn during National Indigenous History Month. We are incredibly grateful to the Canadian Race Relations Foundation for making these screenings possible.
Rumble Charity Boxing Class Fundraiser
The team at Rumble Boxing helped us fundraise for our 2023 Graduation with a fun fitness boxing class. We appreciate their efforts in helping us to raise funds for this important day for the Stardale Girls.
Release of *NEW* Promotional Video
In honour of National Indigenous History Month Stardale released our new video outlining the variety of projects we have created and resources available for rental. This video also serves as a promotional piece for our upcoming documentary (release date to be announced)
Watch the Video Here:
Drumming at Way Out West Fest - Art Auction
The Stardale Girls Drumming Group was invited to perform as the openers for the Way Out West Fest Art Auction in front of some of Calgary's biggest art aficionados.
Chalk of the Town
The walking pathways were covered with beautiful drawings and positive messages courtesy of the Stardale girls.
Release of Hope Feeds the Heart
Stardale was ecstatic to announce the release of the first-ever recorded single by the Stardale Girls Drumming Group.
Listen to Hope Feeds the Heart below or wherever you get your music!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=adHxVkgeWHw&pp=ygUUaG9wZSBmZWVkcyB0aGUgaGVhcnQ%3D
Stardale Garden Project
The girls planted their seeds and have been watching their hard work payoff all month long. Their garden has grown both with new plants and sprouts as well as some other exciting additions. Some of the girls worked to raise the Tipi created for Stardale whilst others focused on tending to the garden and cooking some delicious meals. In addition, the Stardale Garden was featured on the Western Wheel (https://www.westernwheel.ca/local-news/okotoks-garden-gives-indigenous-girls-experience-on-the-land-7063633)
Stardale Graduation 2023
We came together in celebration on June 14 for the graduation of the class September
2022-June 2023 programming at Stardale. The girls shared a special drumming performance and many beautiful moments with those closest to them.
Deconstructing Racism - Different Perspectives Seminar
On to the stage and spreading awarness at the Deconstructing Racism event at The Oasis of the Grace.
National Indigenous Peoples Day
National Indigenous People's Day was a busy one for the Stardale team as the girls performed at two different schools, Calgary French & International School and Dr. Martha Cohen School to crowds of hundreds!
Community, Connection, and Education Event
The community came together for a wonderful film screening of Shadows in Time and a discussion on the real-life experiences depicted in the films. Summed up by a beautiful drumming performance the girls were able to make their voices heard and educate as well.
Radio Spot - CKUA
Executive Director, Helen McPhaden joined host Tony King for an interview on all things Reconciliation, NIHM 2023 and to speak on the film Shadows in time. Listen to the full interview here:
https://ckua.com/listen/shadows-in-time-reclaiming-dance-music-and-storytelling/?fbclid=IwAR0yM1xo9pIrmu4aSU1YzYaPasRbAa-gRdPpA9vySj3cGZ7PdwH9Gvt-5lI