ABGC starts traditional singing group

The Akwesasne Boys and Girls Club have begun a new journey, a journey that involves members interested in traditional Mohawk social dances, and songs. This journey of self identification and cultural preservation has lead to the development of the first ABGC Singing group. The singing group provides members with an opportunity to learn and share their traditional social dances and songs with our community, children, schools, and even brother and sister nations. Each member of the singing group is required to attend practice, volunteer each week within the community, and uphold a 75% average in school. Just as a family does, all members of the ABGC singing group work cooperatively to make sure that each of their members completes their homework, and is able to participate in each of their scheduled events.

These events include: a visit and showing of our traditional social songs at the St Lawrence University, many club socials, and socials within the area schools.

The ABGC singers latest adventure took them all the way out to the Penobscot Nation, on Indian Island, Maine, where they had the opportunity to share their traditional songs and dances, and also hear a wide range of Penobscot, Wabanaki traditional music. Many of the members were very surprised to hear the similarities between the nations and their traditions. Throughout the week members had the chance to participate in, traditional Penobscot activities, including: Snow Snake, Basket Making, and Traditional Dance. Later in the evening members had lots of opportunities to interact with Penobscot youth during a basketball tournament as well as a teen dance.

There were a total of six club members that were eligible to travel to the Penobscot nation, they included: Cheyenne Jocko, Katie Benedict, Tina Square, Taylor Smoke, Aniatariio Gibson, and Brooklyn Johnson.

Congratulations to all members of the ABGC singing group for having such an opportunity, and to those who traveled to Maine and proudly shared our Culture with the Penobscot people, you make us so proud and keep up the good work.