User:Matasawagon

Dale Matasawagon is from the Province of Ontario, Canada. He is an Ojibway Indian from the remote community of Aroland First Nation. The community is rich in cultural diversity and oral history; and as such, Dale is fluent in the Ojibway Language speaking and writing in the western dialect, one of Canada's predominant Indigenous language groups. Dale is a Champion Dancer, competing at various Competition Powwows throughout North America, constantly ranking among the best. He is an accomplished Grass Dancer and Chicken Dancer, promoting his Culture and Traditions by way of Song and Dance. He began dancing powwows in his early twenties and immediately conducted workshops on protocol throughout Indian Country. He has travelled across North American, abroad in Europe and Central America showcasing his Traditions and Knowledge. He spent seven weeks performing daily at High Chapparel in Sweden, a testament to his dedication to educate people the ways of his people. One of his greatest accomplishments is having be inducted into the Chicken Dance Society in the summer of 2002 by way of a ceremonial passage. The Prairie Chicken Dance has its origins in Blackfoot Country, from the prairie chicken’s spring time mating dance. The dance is done in mimicking the mating dance of the Prairie Chicken that we see in the Canadian Prairies. This nature dance is seen in the early morning. When this dance is done at a celebration it is done as one of the many dances seen during many celebrations throughout North America. Dale Matasawagon works at the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), The AFN is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada. In addition to his role as a Finance Officer, he advises on Cultural and Protocol matters. He is responsible for the AFN Elder's Council and is the Caretaker for the AFN Eagle Staff; with highest regard. He is recognized by all Chiefs in Assembly.