Sakewew High School will host its annual powwow on Friday which will include traditional dance and various displays. (file photo/battlefordsNOW Staff)

By Angela Brown

Eye on education

Sakewew school gives thanks with powwow gathering

Sep 16, 2019 | 5:00 PM

The festive colours of the fancy dance and other traditional styles will adorn the grounds outside Sakewew High School in North Battleford when the school hosts its annual powwow celebration on Friday.

The focus of the event, called Ninaskomyak in Cree, means to give thanks to all and show gratitude to the Creator for life itself and the wellbeing of the community.

“It’s giving thanks, for life and also for our blessings,” Cultural Coordinator Aron Albert said. “The youth, the families, the staff, and the community come together to show each other support.”

The powwow connects to the start of the harvest.

“At this point of the year we are doing a lot of harvest traditionally in the grounds, in the bushes, out on the prairie,” Albert said.

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The event ties in with the hunting season as a time to gather supplies. Organizers plan to display some of the traditional ways as well, such as the practice of preparing wild meats and berries to dry.

“It’s to show a little of how it was done in the past,” Albert said.

For the powwow itself, the event also aims to be a healing dance.

“People are always asking for good health, and for whatever it may be in our lives we need that healing,” he said.

Participants will learn how to create teepees as well, as part of the day’s activities.

The powwow is open to all students and anyone else in the community who wants to participate. Youth of all ages can take part, as well as the elderly.

“We send an invitation to come and enjoy the day and participate in the dance,” Albert said. “It’s part of a gathering, and it’s part of a giveaway also.”

A light lunch is also planned.

The powwow runs from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

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angela.brown@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @OCoureurDesBois