Sunshine and bright smiles greet Sheguiandah Powwow attendees

SHEGUIANDAH—The forecasted rain failed to make an appearance during the weekend, ensuring the Sheguiandah Traditional Jiingtamok (powwow) enjoyed great crowds throughout the event.

One of the highlights of the weekend was the honouring of Ambrose Recollect, whose diligent attention over the years has ensured the sacred fire burns bright. The Sheguiandah Powwow Committee gave out gifts of homemade bread in his honour.

Sadly, due to this year’s fire ban, no fireworks were held this year, but that omission did nothing to dampen spirits throughout the weekend.

Parking lots filled near to brim were the first indication of how great the attendance was, providing a huge boon to the many vendors who were on hand offering up Indigenous crafts, art and food in plentiful measure.

Sheguiandah First Nation Chief Elvis Mishibinijima welcomed everyone to the powwow and thanked the many volunteers who helped make the event a success.

Theme for this year’s jiingtamok was “Honouring Past, Present and Future.” Head dancers on both days were Jason and Pam Solomon, while head elders were Jerry and Linda Kaboni. Master of ceremonies Greg ‘The Goose’ Sutherland was ably assisted by knowledgekeeper Craig Fox.

While vendors were limited to Anishinaabe, that did nothing to limit numbers as there were plenty of both artisan and food offerings on hand. “Sheguiandah band members do not pay a vendor fee, just a donation to give away,” said Frazer Whiteduck. “This is requested by the Brandy Waaba-Zheezheeb baa, as she was a dedicated powwow vendor as long as this powwow was going on and she believed the Sheguiandah powwow should support its economic warriors and the entrepreneurial spirit.”

Ontario Regional Chief Glen Hare was on hand during the event, noting that the important role of culture and tradition play in binding the nations together and how wonderful it was to see so many young children dancing in regalia.

“We were invited to Ottawa for the celebrations today,” said Regional Chief Hare. “I think our place is here, in our own communities, celebrating our own history and traditions.”

The laughter of young children racing around the powwow grounds was matched only by the dedication those same youth showed while engaged in their respective dance styles. Jingle dress dancers, shawl dancer, traditional men’s regalia and grass dancers were all to be found in miniature form throughout the weekend.

One of the highlights of the weekend was a fashion show by Cheyanne Manitowabi. Stay tuned for more details on that to follow.