[Photograph of a Bharatanatyam dance performer seeking blessing from an unidentified individual at a cultural dance performance event]

Photograph of an unidentified Bharatanatyam dance performer seeking blessing from an unidentified individual onstage at a cultural dance performance event with Sue Hammell standing behind them.

Bharatanatyam, a classical dance style of India, is indigenous to the Tamil Nadu region and prevalent in southern India. Bharatanatyam serves the expression of Hindu religious themes and devotions. Bharatanatyam was originally performed exclusively by female temple dancers and was not brought to the stage for public performance until about 1930. A vital tradition of Bharatanatyam is a graduation performance, called Arangetram, in which graduates showcase their talents.

Sue Hammell is a former Member of the Legislative Assembly for Surrey-Green Timbers, serving multiple terms since 1991. She held key roles, including Minister for Women's Equality, and co-founded the Minerva Foundation for BC Women. Hammell also worked internationally to support female leaders and served as Executive Director of the Surrey Aboriginal Society.