SUNSHINE ALLEY—Whitefish River First Nation (WRFN) celebrated its 24th annual Wawaskinaga Traditional Powwow earlier this month at Sunshine Alley themed ‘Aambi Niimida’ (let’s dance).
Master of ceremonies for the powwow Dan Fox introduced the many special guests throughout the weekend such as visiting royalty Miss Wikwemikong Destinee Kaboni and the newly crowned Little Miss Wawaskinaga Sierra Myre and Jr. Miss Wawaskinaga Sierra McGregor.
“They asked us questions and we had to dance,” explained nine-year-old Sierra McGregor of the princess pageant. “It was fun. I am really happy to be crowned and represent my community.”
There were six drum groups keeping the beat throughout the weekend including host drum group Biitabiness, Chigiizi, Mashkoogaboo, Big Daawg, Turtle Island and Nimkii.
The UCCM Police were asked to join the grand entry on Sunday with Mr. Fox noting, “You are our protectors and we are proud of you and want to show you off.”
Head elder Gloria McGregor delivered the prayer, telling a story of her youngest daughter who returned to the community.
“She came back for the powwow and as an elder beat the drum, she grabbed my hand and jumped,” shared Ms. McGregor. “She said she felt something come through her and it told her she needed to return home to her community. Today she is home and walks with our youth in the community. Miigwetch (thank you) to all the youth in the community who made this powwow possible and are a positive influence in our community.”
After grand entry led by arena director Gregor Jacko, and the veteran’s dance featuring head veteran Gerry McGregor, WRFN Chief Shining Turtle gave an address.
“Welcome to all who are here today,” said the chief. “We are very proud of this territory. You may not know this, but you are sitting in a canoe put here by the spirits thousands of years ago. This is why this is such a special place and why we hold our ceremonies here.”
“I want to acknowledge the helpers who made this powwow possible,” continued Chief Shining Turtle. “The last few years the organizing of the powwow has been taken over by the youth in our community such as Crystal McGregor. I am honoured and privileged to be able to watch these young people organize events likes this and be such a positive force. I would also like to acknowledge our powwow master of ceremonies Dan Fox who has been with us for a long time. The Creator give him a special gift to be able to translate the spirit world and the real world and the ability to tell stories.”
The first dance was led by head dancers Tim and Maretta McGregor assisted by the powwow royalty present.
Despite the rainy weather on Saturday, the sun was shining brightly on Sunshine Alley on Sunday and there were over 75 dancers that took part in the annual Wawaskinaga Traditional Powwow.
