M’CHIGEENG—Wednesday, May 24 was Manitoulin Secondary School’s annual powwow. For those unfamiliar, a powwow is a collection of dances and gatherings that are traditional to Indigenous cultures. This year’s powwow theme was ‘Uniting Our Culture.’
“The Three Fires Confederacy thought this theme was appropriate for us as we progress in our teaching, learning and creating a school that embodies Truth and Reconciliation,” says Karen McGraw, a leader in organizing the powwow and a staff member at MSS.
All high school students, elementary schools and community members of the Island were invited to join in this yearly celebration. The event started at 12:30 pm with a grand entry of flag bearers, dancing and drumming. The drumming and singing was done by the Red River Drum group, of which Ms. McGraw is very grateful for. Principal David Wiwchar delivered the land acknowledgment, extending a warm welcome to students from various schools across the Island, as well as chiefs present and community members in attendance. Native language teacher and Elder Jean Debassige delivered an opening prayer in Ojibwe and English.
“There was a lot of young people in regalia and ribbon skirts, which we were happy to see,” said Ms. McGraw.
Head dancers Sonya Jacko-Cywink and Pahquis Trudeau led the dancing for the day. The fan favourite was the Potato Dance. Everyone had to grab a partner and a small potato. With your partner you had to keep the potato held in between both of your foreheads while dancing around the circle. There were a variety of other dances, some featuring dancers while others invited everyone onto the floor.
Three Fires Student Council, consisting of Chief Jorja Peltier, Markus Otosquaiob, Danica Peltier and Lauren Osawamick would like to thank everyone who attended and look forward to next year’s powwow here at MSS.
“Keep making your regalia and keep on two stepping,” Ms. McGraw encouraged.
This annual event is a very important one to MSS. It brings together communities for a couple hours full of dancing, drumming, singing, and laughter. It is a great celebration of culture and an event that forms bonds across Manitoulin.
