Powwow symbolizes cultural renewal

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For First Nations with small population and remote locations, cultural renewal can be challenging. However, a small Native community nestled on Western Manitoulin has reached out to larger reserves for help in bringing the traditions home.

Zhiibaahaasing First Nation, formerly known as the Cockburn Island band, held its fifth annual powwow Oct. 25. The theme was Honouring Our Women.

"Our powwow has grown over the past five years," Chief Irene Kells said. "Because we are small, everybody helps out. There are only 54 people in the community, including kids and dogs.

"But even though we are small, it is important for our children to see the adults dancing, having fun and socializing. We need to bring the culture back; we need to bring it to life and show the young people this positive interaction.

"A lot of good things are happening in our community," she said in welcoming remarks.

"I want to thank all the men who got up early and set the sacred fire in the tipi; I want to thank all the women who cooked all night so that everyone could enjoy themselves today."

Master of ceremonies Kevin Mossip presided over the day-long program. Birch Island Elder Violet McGregor was invited to deliver the invocation. Elder Lillian Pitawanakwat presided over the smudging and healing ceremony.

Guest drummers Medicine Star and Eagle Rock played honour songs for head veteran Bill Antoine and guest veterans Victor Migwans and Ken Antoine.

Head dancers for the occasion were Leroy Eshkawkogan of Wikwemikong and Gmewin Migwans of M'Chigeeng. A special swearing in ceremony was held for newly elected band council members. Ken Antoine, Sharlene Panamick and Dorothy Blue signed the oath of office.

Chief Patrick Madahbee of Aundeck Omni Kaning First Nation brought greetings from his home community.

He commended Chief Kells and council for taking control of community development. "When all is said and done, it is important to understand that communities need to decide how they want to run things. That's true governance," he said.

"Sometimes we take for granted the fact that we are a very unique people, the Anishinabek," he told the gathering. "We need to remember that the people of Zhiibaahaasing are one of a kind; they are unique.

The Creator placed us here on Turtle Island and our creation stories tell us we have been here for thousands of years."

He reiterated his view that First Nations must stick together and remain unified on issues of mutual importance. "We need to have strong families and communities. Our strength is in our people. We need to support our leaders in trying to create a better life in our communities."