controversial figure skating dance

[shootingstar]

this is a bit off-topic, but going back to the Torino games' closing ceremonies, the show that Canada put on was definitely cringe-worthy. I"m surprised they even went that route of the inuit and the igloo. That's pretty much what the whole world imagines Canada to be, why instill that kind of stereotype?

The aboriginal component is only part of the big picture-- you'll see badger, if one takes time to visit the free pavilions near home, there's only 2 aboriginal pavilions out of over 15 different pavilions each showcasing a Canadian province or a 'welcome' place (or foreign country, ie. Netherlands, Russia, etc.)

Some of the aboriginals do see it as opportunity to educate the public about their traditions/past/history while others prefer to more realistic presentation of what is happening now in their respective communities. I agree on both perspectives which must be delivered to the general public to get a well-rounded picture. I know dance, song, and all that cultural stuff is just feel-good stuff to absolve confronting realities of racism, etc., if people do not also accept sharing power in decision-making and mapping a mammoth project, like the Olympics.

After all, I wonder for those who walk through old, historic Chinatown: do they have any clue about the history about the Canadian Chinese ..NOT the Chinese in China? It is the most historic Chinatown in Canada in terms of historic richness. Someone has to take the initiative then, to explain to visitors then...not just sit back.

Today I just came back from free opening of the Museum of Anthropology for their retrofitted wing. Hey, it normally costs $14.00 per adult to get in. Some great dance and drumming performances. It was a rare opportunity for even local residents to see the 4 First Nations groups that occupy Metro Vancouver, showcasing their dance, music and singing. Several aboriginal elders expressed barely contained pride of being in the retrofitted wing and sharing their stuff, etc.

Instead of showing some great traditional west coast aboriginal art that is at the museum (and reinforcing more stereotypical images ), here's something contemporary aboriginal in spirit. And it's sports related.

Explanation of the iconography on snowboard:

“The Challenger” is the for First Nations snowboard team. I’ve used Coast Salish
eyes to symbolize being watched, the Sxwayxway mask with the swirl to represent being in a state of awe and spiritual focus, and this specific to signify protection.”

Xwalacktun (Rick Harry), Swxwu7mesh

One wonders once the Russian couple comes to Vancouver, if they will be taken to some of these performances, meet the dancers and elders. One would hope. Otherwise not much new positive stuff is learned by them when already their dance routine has received international press before they got to Vancouver.