WHITEFISH RIVER FN—The happy voices of young children accented the beat of the drum as the Whitefish River First Nation (WRFN) winter powwow got underway. The gathering in the community centre was the culmination of a day of King’s Day celebrations that included a baby welcoming and feast. The winter powwow was hosted by the Family Well-Being Centre and Whitefish River First Nation.
The Boozhoo Oskabinoojiinh Giizhgad (Welcoming New Life) tradition of celebration on the Epiphany, January 6, is an opportunity for the community to welcome its newest members and is a time of great joy. Taking part in the welcome were Charlie Mae, Mia, Rush and Jericho and their parents. Joining in the welcoming were Chief Rodney Nahwegahbow and band councillors Talon McGregor, Brian McGregor, Leona Nahwegahbow, Richard Shawanda and Leslie McGregor.
The well-attended winter powwow began at 7 pm and was led into the community hall dance arena by the eagle staffs, head veteran William Morin, head dancers Tim and Mariette McGregor and Junior Wawaskinga Princess Delilah McGregor, under the watchful eye of arena director Greg Sutherland.
photo by Tammy Nahwegahbow
There were four drums in attendance, including North Shore Oitchiidaa Singers, Genaabaajing Junior Singers, Young Biisineh and Anishinaabe Connection and the order of business was kept flowing by co-emcee Marti Pitawanakwat.
A number of vendors were on hand, including a young Chum in full dance regalia, who is continuing the entrepreneurial spirit of his forebearers with a host of traditional crafts and artisan work on offer.
