THUNDER BAY – The Lakehead University Native Student Association is hosted its 33rd annual powwow at the C.J. Sanders Fieldhouse this weekend, with Lakehead students and the local community coming together to celebrate indigenous culture and dance.
The annual powwow is a signature event that showcases traditional aspects of indigenous culture such as drumming, dancing, singing, and giving thanks.
The event started on Friday with warm-ups, followed by the Grand entry on Saturday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Along with a traditional feast that took place later in the day.
This event was the first time since 2019 that the powwow was able to be hosted in person as the last two have been virtual, Lakehead University Vice-Provost, Indigenous Initiatives, Denise Baxter said being back in person was a whole different element.
“It is a celebration, it is a time of coming together,” she said. “And you know when people can come into that circle with us and just be part of that, I think those are the really important times that we do come together.”
Organizing the powwow, the Lakehead University Native Student Association’s goal is to promote the spirit of unity among indigenous students at Lakehead University through social, cultural and recreation events in addition to promoting cultural awareness.
LUNSA President, Jordan Thompson-Vankoughnett said the Powwow is much more than just a celebration, it's also a wonderful learning opportunity.
“It's a great stepping stone to allowing these indigenous students to feel more welcomed in these school spaces because in the past it has failed them in that aspect because they unfortunately aren't always welcomed,” He said.
“So, I feel like this is a great way to promote their culture and to promote them as people to bring them into the community and to strengthen their bond with everybody.
