By Elizabeth Huber
Saskatchewan

Hosting an inaugural event — even one steeped in sacred traditions — is a chance to try something new and an opportunity to educate and engage the community.

The recent powwow and round dance in Swift Current strived to do just that.

The doors were open, the bleachers which hold approximately 500 people were full, the dancers’ chairs surrounded the arena floor and the colourful regalia adourned the building.

A brochure, a synopsis of powwow and culture, was available as a handy guide and quick reference tool to understand the traditions and etiquette of the celebration.

“The stirring beat and rhythm of the drums moves both participants and spectators and brings all to where spectators themselves become participants,” provided the program’s description.

The powwow committee also chose to select a number of local residents to be judges of the competitions as a way to “engage” Swift Current.

“It is really inspiring and colourful and it teaches people how important our first people are and the beautiful culture that there is,” said Cecile Blanke, a Métis woman from Swift Current who takes great pride in the traditions of her culture.

“This is part of our roots.”

After participating in the dignitary grand entry, on Sunday, led by the Eagle Staff and flag bearers, Blanke spoke of the pleasure she experienced participating in the ceremony. An honour since 2010 has been designated the year of the Métis.

“I was feeling very proud,” she said, adding finally the culture was being recognized in southwestern Sask.
“The south  has never really learned about the culture and now this is an eye-opener,” she continued.

As the sound of the drum filled the air and a stampede of children stormed by it was time for Blanke to return to the elders lounge to continue watching the powwow.

The subtle signs and reminders of respect and honour were predominant.

The elders’ lounge, is just one example. Another, the drums which were never left unattended. It is central
to the powwow and many other ceremonies. The drum is considered to be alive, it is considered to be “grandfather.”

For many of the Swift Current residents sitting in the audience, it was their first opportunity to watch a powwow. If the tapping of their feet was a reconfirmation of the organizers’ statement that a powwow “brings all to where spectators themselves become participants,” is true, they will return next year too.

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