Storytelling is one of the oldest traditions in some indigenous cultures, which is why the provincial government proclaims February each year as Aboriginal Storytelling month.

To kick off the month filled with events and activities, Saskatchewan Polytechnic in Moose Jaw hosted an event Monday to honour the tradition and engage their staff, students and residents with storytelling. 

Two speakers took to the podium after dignitaries within the post-secondary institution detailed the importance of the event and the impact it makes on their facilities. one of the speakers was Jason Chamakese, who is also a talented Flute Player as well. 

"I really think that events like that can only yield positive results because it helps foster a sense of understanding and mutual respect," explained Chamakese. "We really, really need that with today's social climate, the province, throughout North America and the world."

Many important lessons were shared as Chamakese was behind the microphone, but he said if he wanted attendees to walk away with anything, he hopes with it would be the act of understanding people around you.

"Learn people's stories before you make assumptions and judgments, learn the story of where they come from and why things are the way they are. I think that's one of the most important things is knowing about one another."

He noted that there are a few key elements of the indigenous culture that he hopes live on, and engaging young people in these ceremonies and events is a perfect way to share it with them.

"I really think that it's important to keep traditions alive such as storytelling, our songs, and our ceremonies. There have been numerous attempts in the past to erase that, but they are still here today. I think they're going to be around for a long, long time... long after I'm gone. That is my hope that several generations down it'll still be going, especially language," said Chamakese. 

Sask Polytech and the Moose Jaw Library host various events throughout February in conjunction with the province's proclamation.