Pakuri, commonly known as St. Cuthbert’s Mission, held its traditional tribal games last weekend. These games included long distance races and archery.
GINA said that the games were held by the newly elected Toshao (Indigenous Chief) Lennox Shuman who represents Region Four, as a lead up to Indigenous Heritage Month. In an interview with the Toshao, he said that the community is hoping to improve grow the cultural aspects of their lives. “In the past, we have had little emphasis on culture and I think our heritage festivities in the community in itself would be testimony to the little we have done”, he said.
He added, that as a community, St Cuthbert’s Mission is hoping to move beyond what they have and be comfortable with who they are. GINA said that when asked what was the reaction from the community concerning the traditional games that were held, Toshao Shuman said, “The feedback has been a little mixed because in the past, people have paid our community and our culture a lot of lip-service”.
Advisor to the Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Mervyn Williams, reflecting what he saw during the games, stated that, “It was a demonstration of will by all the athletes”. According to Williams, the tribal games displayed the recognition of one’s heritage and represents who they are and what they believe in.
Boys, girls and the older men of the village took party in the races. Monetary prizes were given to the top three participants of each race, GINA said.
Other activities included drumming and dancing, including dancing around their traditional bonfire. Next year’s activities’ should include swimming, canoe races and fishing as part of enhancing the games. The tribal games were made possible by way of community effort.
