Sask. aboriginal community welcomes refugees with round dance

It's a welcome from the province's first peoples to some of its newest citizens.

Events taking place this week across the provinceare introducing refugees to Indigenous culture.

It's part of the bridges program which was created to developa stronger relationship between indigenous people and newcomers.

Beulah Gana is with theSaskatchewan Association of Immigrant Settlement and Integration Agencies(SAISIA),an organization that helps settle and integrate immigrants.

According to Gana, it's important to build bridges between the two communities early.

"[Newcomers]don't know there are the people who have been on the land first. You have this impression that this is all white Caucasians," she said.

A grand entry, round dance and an opportunity for the two groups to share elements of their cultures are all part of the events.

Something specialhappened organically after the round dance at Saskatoon's eventon Wednesday, saidBrad Bird with the Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Saskatchewan.

"At first they were a little hesitant and shy and then once they got in there you could see the joy on their face and also they did a dance performance for us as well and I thought that that was really special that they felt open enough to share that with us," said Bird.

Regina's event is taking place on Friday afternoon at Evraz Place.

Moose Jaw will host an event atHoly Family Cathedral Hall on Monday.