By Ewa Chwojko-Srawley
The Chippewas of Georgina Island Pow Wow took place on the weekend of September 28/29, aligning with the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day. This annual event honors Indigenous culture, history, and the ongoing journey toward healing and reconciliation.
Houston Matheson, who traveled from Kingston with his stand, selling orange T-shirts, was thrilled to see so many attendees embracing the meaning of Orange Shirt Day. He said, “It’s uplifting to see the support and to see the appreciation of our culture by so many non-Indigenous people.”
Lauri Hoeg, who has coordinated the Pow Wow for 10 years, says the heart of these gatherings is all about reviving culture and reconnecting with traditions. She adds, “Non-Native people who come can learn that there are many different cultural groups and that we are a strong, resilient people.”
That resilience was truly needed, because Pow Wows once faced tough challenges. In 1876, Canada’s Indian Act restricted Indigenous peoples’ rights to hold cultural and spiritual ceremonies, including Pow Wows.
Despite that, First Nations across Canada kept hosting Pow Wows and other ceremonies in secret. These gatherings were kept alive by resilient communities, passing down traditions quietly.
Gail Johnston, whose traditional name is ‘Keeper of the Bear Spirit, ‘recalls, “My father told me that as a young boy, he and his friends would hide in a tree to keep watch and warn the dancers when the RCMP were coming. The spirit survived! When I was younger, I would go to Pow Wows every week. For me, it’s all about celebrating life, camaraderie, friendship and coming together with all our relations.”
Sandy, a free-spirit dancer, shares what participating in a Pow Wow means to him. He says, “Dancing in a circle is a way of healing. When I dance, I leave all my worries behind. When we dance, we spread love. When non-Natives dance with us, they begin to understand. In that circle, fear goes away, love comes out, and the light in your heart brightens. You become a free spirit and learn something no book could ever teach you.”
Glendon, a teacher from Richmond Hill, was attending a Pow Wow for the first time, and admitted he knew very little about Indigenous culture. He says, “I was pleasantly surprised that we were invited into the circle. Dancing with everyone was such a powerful experience, a sense of belonging, celebrating Native culture together. I’m impressed by the dancers’ skills and the beauty of their regalia. I’m happy my daughter could be part of this celebration. I’ll definitely encourage my students to come next year.”
Many non-Native people joined in and enjoyed the spirit of the Pow Wow. Nick Stroganov, born and raised in Georgina, regularly attends Pow Wows. He says, “It’s important to know the culture of the land we live on, to experience it, and to support it. I enjoy the dances, but I also love trying the traditional food.”
What can you expect if you’ve never been to a Pow Wow? There are competitions in traditional dances and fun activities for kids. Visitors can enjoy delicious traditional food and support Indigenous-owned businesses, which showcase amazing collections of artwork, beadwork, jewelry, and so much more.
But first of all, you’ll be surrounded by friendly people, make new friends, and experience firsthand what Indigenous culture is all about!
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