WIIKWEMKOONG—The heartbeat of the nation rang throughout the gymnasium of Wiikwemkoong High School as Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory welcomed in the new year with a cadre of drum groups that included Bear Creek, Snake Island, Whitetail Cree, Chippewa Travellers, Young Biisineh and Mix Tribe. The drums all played together as 2024 transitioned into 2025 with the New Year.
One of the other highlights of the New Year’s Eve Powwow Social was the presentation of a set of seven eagle feathers to Ralph Gonawabi, a Wiikwemkoong band councillor and community activist for his immense contributions to his community’s wellness.
“I am truly humbled and honoured,” said Mr. Gonawabi, who was then enjoined to dance a circuit of the dance arena during a song in his honour.
The evening was very well attended, with a huge host of dancers in full regalia joining in the festivities along with the drum groups, friends, family and visitors, all helped along by the dulcet voice of master of ceremonies Meeg Snake and the gentle hand of arena directors Jason Kitchikake and Cheyenne Kitchikake.
The master of ceremony announced that the social was being held in honour of Chris ‘The Pleasant” Pheasant baa, the popular powwow emcee who began his spirit journey in December 2019.
Head elder was Gerry Kaboni and head dancers were Alanna Trudeau and Pahquis Trudeau.
The social was preceded by a community feast and the laughter of happy children and murmur of warm greetings could be heard as an undercurrent to the drum songs. Hugs and smiles were definitely the order of the day.
