Laya Morrison – Sharing Her Love for Jingle Dress Dancing

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Listuguj’s Laya Morrison is a student at Sugarloaf Senior High School and began dancing when she was around five years old. She was initially interested in fancy shawl dancing but quickly discovered her love for jingle dress dancing. She was inspired by her family and said, “I’ve always looked up to all of my Aunties, and I knew I wanted to be able to dance and have those teachings, and be a role model to the younger ones, as they are to me.”

She taught herself the dance by watching others, paying attention to their foot work, body language and their steps. Morrison enjoys being around other dancers, the songs, and praying for those who need it. She said, “I’m very grateful for the opportunities and the memories I make along this journey of mine.”

Morrison recently announced she will be offering classes to youth who would like to learn how to dance and learn more about their culture. There are two different classes for different age groups – ages 8-10 and ages 4-7. These classes will be offered at Alaqsite’w Gitpu School on weekends. Morrison is a big advocate for encouraging youth to learn how to dance and hopes that her classes can create dancing opportunities for others. Her advice to youth who are looking to learn jingle dress dancing is to never give up, carry themselves with confidence, and embrace the importance of developing their own unique style.

Morrison continues to dance at all Pow Wows in the area. She was Jr. Head Dancer at this year’s powwow at St. Mary’s First Nation in Fredericton, NB.  She is also incredibly grateful to be able to go on the powwow trail with her family, and for all their love and encouragement.

If you would like more information on Laya Morrison’s jingle dance dress classes, you can contact her directly or find her Dance Class group advertised on Alaqsite’w Gitpu School’s Facebook page.

By Ann Marie Jacques

Chief’s Message with Chief Scott Martin – October 2025

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I would just like to take this time and offer my sympathy and condolences to everyone who has experienced a loss recently. This has been a challenging and difficult year for Listuguj, as we’ve lost several members of our community.  Now is a more important time than ever to value our relationships and be there for our friends and family during these times of need.

Apoqonmatultiej Wellness Centre Has Its Grand Opening

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On Tuesday, October 7th, the Apoqonmatultiej Wellness Centre held a grand opening event.  The Centre is officially open and is housed in the new expansion at Haven House at 2B Lnu Street in Listuguj. The grand opening consisted of giveaways, refreshments, and information on services the Wellness Centre has to offer.

This new Centre is a safe and friendly environment and offers support and services in several areas, such as family violence, sexual violence, addictions, mental health and more. The services can be offered via one-on-one support, workshops, group sessions and more.

Community members can access services and retrieve information at the Wellness Centre for the following programs:

  • Culture and Family Support – Family Violence Prevention – Promoting positive and healthy lifestyle for the male population in Listuguj.
  • CAVAC – “Crime Victims Assistance Centre” – Access to professionals trained in intervention if you are a victim or a witness to a crime.
  • Mawiomi Treatment Services – Support for Indigenous adults navigating challenges with drugs, alcohol and substance use disorders.
  • Sacred Bundles – Healing and Counselling Services for First Nations.

For more information:

Manager
418-788-2958

Social Intervenor
418-788-3080

Women’s Outreach
418-788-3674

CAVAC
418-788-2850

Drop-ins are welcome!

By Ann Marie Jacques