Every fall, a new young woman is crowned the Calgary Stampede First Nations Princess. On Sept. 22, Cieran Starlight of Tsuut’ina First Nation took the stage at Enmax Park alongside six other young women who competed to take her place. During her last day as princess, Starlight attended the fall fair to perform traditional dances.
Starlight says her favourite part about being the princess was being a positive ambassador for Treaty 7 First Nations people. As a spokesperson for Canadian First Nations peoples, Starlight has seen her fair share of public events. “I think they really enjoy being able to see our culture and our dances and learning a little bit more about Indigenous people here in Calgary,” says Starlight.
Last year, the fall fair was the first event Starlight attended as the princess. She says it’s nice to wrap up her year with the same event that started it all. It’s also allowed her to see how much she has grown throughout the year.
After her performance, Starlight spoke with community members and joined them on stage for a crowd dance. The colourful dancers and curious spectators gathered on stage, linked hands and began dancing in a circle to celebrate friendship.
Hosted by Calgary Stampede, the fall fair is described as an event that welcomes Calgary communities to Enmax Park with “western hospitality and community spirit.” This event also gives people the opportunity to connect with the Calgary Stampede aside from the ten-day rodeo event.
Editor: Shelby Dechant | sdechant@cjournal.ca
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