Peigans share culture with Kazahks

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Crowshoes return from China, surprised by cultural similarities

While his fears of going without pemmican and moose meat were partially dismissed, Joe Crowshoe was faced with a new problem ? how to use chopsticks.

Crowshoe, along with his son Reggie, both of the Peigan reserve at Brocket, recently returned from their two week visit to China, where they were accompanied by some of Canada's finest archeologists.

"A lot of the food was similar, so that didn't bother him," said Reggie Crowshoe of his father's trip. "But it was sure hard for him not being able to eat with a fork."

The Crowshoe pair left Sept. 16 for China with the Canada-China Dinosaur fossil expedition sponsored by the Ex Terra Foundation of Edmonton.

Because of similar dinosaur finds in the two countries an expedition was arranged sending Canada's experts to China this year, followed by China's experts visiting Canada in fall of '88.

Native Canadians became involved in the expedition because, like dinosaurs, it is believed that they crossed into North America when the two continents were connected. The involvement began with the painting of tipis that were presented in a ceremony to China's native people ? Kazahks. In turn, it is expected the Kazahks will return the gesture in 1988 with a visit and a gift of yurts ? their native dwellings.

"I'm really pleased that we were able to contribute something to this expedition," said Crowshoe. "I think the introduction of our culture with that of the Kazahks helped to break the ice between the scientists and the people there."

The Canadian expedition was greeted in China by a large crowd of Chinese and Kazahk people.

"It was a real sharing of culture," said Kevin Taft, Ex Terra chairman of the board. "There wee so many different lifestyles; the Blackfoot, caucasian, Chinese and the Kazahks.

Crowshoe was most impressed by the similarities in lifestyles between the two countries aboriginal people.

"They cooked bannock similar to our way," said Crowshoe, but instead of beef, they use a lot of mutton ? something Crowshoe says is an acquired taste. And, like Indians, Kazahks also have chiefs and elders and similar spiritual beliefs.

"I was really impressed by the number of people who showed up for the ceremonies," said Crowshoe, referring to the raising of the tipis. "We, (Reggie and Joe) raised the tipi and then through interpreters explained what the design meant."

The Crowshoes had little time to explore the other sights China had to offer.

"They (the Kazahks) put on so many special events," said Crowshoe. "They had horse races, ethnic dances, meetings with their elders and just talking about the similarities in culture."

Next year it will be the Peigans turn to offer their hospitality.

"We're hoping to have the Kazahks come over next year with their yurts," said Taft. "Right now we are in the discussion stage but I'm optimistic."

"It was really interesting to meet the Kazahks, to see their lifestyle and experience their culture," said Crowshoe. "I'm looking forward to offering the Kazahks the same experience."