The Blanket

One of my favourite rituals of Viki Kelly's class happened at the beginning of each meeting. We would gather in a circle, acknowledge the Directions, Drum and Lay the Blanket. I found this experience touched me to the core. It built community in a powerful way. I brought the Laying of the Blanket into my drama classes at Burnaby Central. I followed protocol with respect. Students carefully laid the blanket, shells and sage. We then shared as each student spoke. At the end, we closed the ritual and students picked up the items in reverse of the laying.
This was something my Theatre Company Class wanted to do as part of the Remembrance Day ceremony. It was to be a collaboration with the Music Department to pay homage to Indigenous Soldiers that fought in past wars. Unfortunately, this was denied by our School District. Viki told me to think smarter and that's my play for the next Remembrance Day Assembly. It will be done with respect and support. I am finding a different way.