CULTURAL EXCHANGE
One of the new experiences this year was stepping deeply into the culture and traditions of the students, their families, the faculty and staff. We learned traditional dancing and drumming, attended an "Announcement" party with people from surrounding villages, went to Sunday church, watched the preparation of a chicken dinner, etc.
Traditional Dancing and Drumming
Marianne learning the boys' part
Kya learning the girls' part
Marianne practicing with her partner
Vicki learning to drum
Our very patient teacher, Teddy. Not sure who was having more fun -- the kids or us
Dancers from DAA Traditional Dance Troupe performing at Farewell Ceremony
Announcement Celebration
The cousin of one of DAA's students was to be married to a man from another "tribe". To celebrate the announcement of their engagement and marriage all in the villagers were invited to a celebration. The DAA student invited some of the teachers who invited us. It was a day of native languages, song, dancing and ritual. We learned about male and female roles, gift giving, and witnessed celebrating into the wee small hours of the morning.
The bride's family
Groom's friends and family
The Bride
Groom's Entrance
Gifts were brought in by members of the groom's family and included chickens, goats, a cow, fruit, furniture, rice, suitcases, clothing, beverages, beans,etc. for the brides' family.
Sunday Church Services
We were invited to join some of the children to their Sunday Church Services. Most of the children and teachers are Christian, while some are Muslim. The church is a 20 minute walk from the school, and we passed many members of the church who live near the school and in nearby villages. The service was spoken in their native language. The ceremony included drumming, singing, praying, laughter, hope, and sharing. The students were very helpful in guiding us through the service. We were very much welcomed and included in the ceremony.
Ironing a shirt for church
The iron is filled with coal -- it is quite hot!
In Sunday finery
The church with roof almost complete
Fresh Chicken
One afternoon we were sitting in front of our room and suddenly heard the squawking of a chicken. Soon a chicken came running for its life from the back of the building, followed by about 10 of the children who live with the teachers, screaming, giggling and trying to catch the screeching bird. Soon it was VERY quiet. We walked behind the building and saw the kids plucking the chicken. It was as if it was nothing -- we were in hysterics and in awe of how "natural" it was for them. AND, about an hour later a plate of the most delicious chicken was brought to us.
Seeing everyone again for a second year was wonderful and heartwarming! This year, though, we were invited to experience their traditions, culture and beliefs in a deeper way. Being welcomed and included in this part of their lives was beautiful.