Ribbon Skirt Workshop – Healing Through Creation

In partnership with the First Nations Health Authority, R.O.A.R. hosted a Ribbon Skirt Workshop at the Rutland Library as part of preparations for International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) 2025. Indigenous women impacted by the toxic drug crisis gathered to sew their stories and prayers into their skirts, guided by teachings, song, and ceremony.

Each session included:

• Ribbon-skirt teachings
• Tobacco prayer ties
• Bannock and story sharing
• Grief circle and cultural support

When they danced at the Round Dance wearing those skirts, they carried strength, remembrance, and pride.

International Overdose Awareness Day 2025 – Round Dance

Date: August 31, 2025
Location: Kerry Park, Downtown Kelowna,
Corrine spearheaded the IOAD Round Dance as lead organizer for the second annual year in a row. Hundreds gathered in one of the most powerful and emotional IOAD events Kelowna has ever seen — a day filled with remembrance, healing, and Indigenous resurgence.

Featured Guests & Cultural Leaders:

• Elder Randy Jackson
• Dr. Sabet • Corrine L. Guerra Mella
• Helen Jennens •
• Jay Genaille (Hoop Dancer & Storyteller)
  
  Event Highlights:
  
• Signal Point Drum Group
• Medicine-Making Table (Fireweed Wellness Products & R.O.A.R.)
• Memorial Trees donated by RONA • Bannock provided by Kekuli Café
• Multi-organization subcommittee support
  Even after the circle ended, Lighthouse Recovery From Starvation continued outreach — delivering bannock and care packages across the city.
  This year’s IOAD was recognized as one of the most impactful and culturally grounded gatherings in Kelowna’s history.
  
  Our Vision –
  
• Healing is Our Revolution Indigenous Boots on the Ground isn’t just a project — it’s a movement.
  A movement to decolonize care. To bring ceremony and language back to the frontlines. To remind our people that healing belongs to us — and it is powerful.
  Every drumbeat. Every meal. Every smudge. Every life touched is a reminder: Our people are still here. We are still rising.
  “Our healing is not quiet — it’s a ROAR.