PAKURI, commonly known as St. Cuthbert’s Mission, held its traditional tribal games last weekend. These games included long-distance races and archery, accompanied by other cultural displays.
The games were held by the newly elected Toshao (Indigenous Chief) Lennox Shuman, who represents Region 4, as a lead-up to Indigenous Heritage Month. In an interview with the Toshao, he said that the community is hoping to improve 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,” the Toshao disclosed.
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. 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.”
“There is room for improvement and we intend to use this as one of the primary building blocks in the community,” the Toshao added.
Advisor to the Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Mr. Mervyn Williams, reflecting on what he saw during the games, stated, “It was a demonstration of will by all the athletes.” He added, “It is the kind of thing we want to continue to encourage in other communities.”
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 participated in the races. Monetary prizes were given to the top three participants of each race.
The athletes showed determination as they ran the races. Some of them stated that while it was tough running in the sand, they enjoyed it very much.
A demonstration of archery was later done by the indigenous people,as they displayed their accuracy using the arrow and bow.
Other activities included drumming and dancing, including dancing around their traditional bonfire. Next year’s activities should include swimming, canoe races and fishing, as the games are enhanced. The tribal games were made possible by way of community effort.