Maya P.

Sacred Traditions, Stolen Rights

Maya P.
Toronto District School Board Heritage Fair
Toronto, ON

At first, I just wanted to learn more about Indigenous ceremonies to connect more with my heritage, but the more I researched, the more I came across the Indian Act and how it attempted to erase our traditions. That's when I decided to focus on how ceremonies were banned, but fortunately survived. The Elders shared how people protected these traditions by practising them in secret and passing teachings down quietly. A key event was the lifting of the bans in 1951, which led to communities openly practicing again. My concluding response is that ceremonies are important for healing, identity, and connection, and they have survived because of the courage of our people. 

What sources and evidence did you consult for your project? What different perspectives did they provide on your topic?

To answer the question about why Indigenous ceremonies are important, I visited an Indigenous community center and spoke with Elders, who shared stories, teachings, and cultural knowledge. I also looked at sources such as The Canadian Encyclopedia, which explained how the Canadian government changed the Indian Act to ban specific ceremonies like the potlatch and the sun dance in the late 1800s.  

What is the historical significance of your topic?

The historical significance of my topic is how the Indigenous people kept traditions alive even though they were illegal. They demonstrated bravery because they passed down these traditions to their youth. Now, these traditions are still alive because of my ancestors. The short-term impact was cultural loss and trauma and the long-term impact was strength, survival, and pride. 

Today, many Indigenous youth are reconnecting with culture through ceremony, language, and land. I also smudge once a week if possible, and I attend ceremonies, which help me feel more connected with my ancestors and The Creator.  

Why did you choose this topic? 

I wanted to learn more about Indigenous ceremonies to connect more with my heritage.