FNUC hosts powwow in April

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The date and location for the First Nations University of Canada's annual powwow were changed last year to coincide with National Aboriginal Day and the official opening of the university's new Regina campus, but this year the event, which has become the largest powwow in Western Canada, will once again be held in April at the Agridome in Regina's Exhibition Park.

This year's powwow, the 26th annual offering of the event, will take place April 3 and 4.

"This powwow serves as a lead event for the powwow trail in Saskatchewan," said Jan Cyr, First Nations Wellness co-ordinator at the university. "We are expecting between 4,000 to 5,000 First Nations and non-Aboriginal people during the two-day event."

Not only do the university's students get to take part in powwow, but it also gives First Nations students a chance to get together with other Aboriginal students, both past and present, and to spend time with other people who have made a difference in their lives.

"This gives them a chance to say thanks to their friends and family who supported them through their educational journey, and it also gives the faculty a chance to say thank you to the staff and donors who make the First Nations University of Canada a success," Cyr said.

A new feature of this year's powwow is a trade and career fair which will give business and other organizations an opportunity to show their interest in First Nations education, to reac out to potential employees and to help promote success among First Nations people.

Admission to the powwow is $3 per day or $5 for both days. Children five and under are admitted free. Grand entry will take place at noon and 7 p.m. daily.

Registration for all singers and dancers taking part in the powwow competition will be held at 10 a.m. daily.

"The committee says welcome to everyone who attends and we look forward to your visit," Cyr said.

For more information about the powwow, visit the university's Web site at www.firstnationsuniversity.ca.