My parents have always been big on keeping us rooted in our culture. The rule was, regardless of where you’re born and where you’re brought up, we should always know our mother tongue and be able to hold conversations with relatives who aren’t well-versed in English. I have to admit that this practice has led us to forge some of the best relationships with family back home and today, I wouldn’t trade it for a thing.
One mom has a similar attitude when it comes to raising her kids. Martina Desjarlais wants to make sure that her children are always connected to their Native American culture; she wants the little ones to be proud of who they are and what they represent.
Martina has left no stone unturned to help her children get immersed in their traditions. She shares traditional music with the bunch, and as the kids are getting older, they are performing at powwows with their leaders. This practice will make them so much more comfortable in front of an audience, and help them accept their culture and be proud.
Although children wait until they’re a little bit older to take part in powwow performances, Martina’s younger son, Albert, didn’t want to prolong his debut. One day, the family was at the powwow when Albert noticed a group of older men dancing to the beat of the music. That’s when the little one instantly started mimicking their dance moves and trying to keep up with the tribe. Marina knew that her son was interested in being a little performer, so they got to work, practicing at home.
At two years old, Albert was signed up to dance at the powwow in Camrose, Alberta, Canada. The mom was undeniably nervous for her son, but she also knew that her son was ready, and he had a winner’s attitude.
So, as soon as the dance started, mom got it all on camera. You can see Albert dressed in traditional garments, prepared to blow the audience away with his moves. His dance steps are impressive as he moves his feet fast and firm. The audience loved every moment of the dance routine, and mom was one proud parent by the end of it.
Martina put her son’s video on Facebook, and he instantly shot to fame. This performance warmed up everyone’s hearts, and you can tell why!
Click below to catch Albert in full action at his first ever powwow!