An annual celebration is back after a two-year hiatus.
The 20th Annual Northern College Traditional Powwow is being held Sept. 17-18 at the campus in Porcupine.
This year's event is moving outdoors.
“I am excited that it is going to be outside,” said Stephanie Tamming, Northern College's inclusive cultural lead
Usually, between 1,000 and 1,500 people attend, but organizers expect more participation this time.
“The feeling that you get when you attend the powwow is very powerful. It can be very healing,” Tamming explained.
The theme for the event is standing together: honouring the voices that awakened the world.
The powwow is a celebration of life. At the event, the dancers will move in a circle, which conveys the message of equality, said Tamming.
The drum beats out the solemn rhythm of all creation. Drums also summon up a memory that is common to us all, she explained.
“Anybody who doesn’t know the culture and wants to learn the culture, this is the perfect place to go,” said Armanda Sutherland, the Indigenous services and initiative assistant.
Because the event is open to everyone, some printed tips are available to attend the event without hurting or disrespecting cultural values.
Certain parts of the ceremony cannot be photographed. The master of ceremonies (MC) will usually announce it. However, people can join some dances at the MC’s special invitation.
It is an alcohol and drug-free event.
For more information, email [email protected].
