Nations gather at Interschool Memorial Powwow

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Students from 15 First Nations from Saskatchewan and Alberta gathered for an all-day celebration of dance, music, hand games and outdoor activities during the Thunderchild Interschool Memorial Powwow on May 25.

Joining together were students from Thunderchild, Loon Lake, Kehewin, Onion Lake, Poundmaker, Red Pheasant, Sweetgrass, Moosomin, Saulteaux, Joseph Big Head, Island Lake, Witchekan Lake, Mosquito, Big River and Little Pine, as well as students from Avalon school in North Battleford.

"It is a day to shake hands, make friends, laugh, get along and dance," said Chief Delbert Wapass in his opening address.

Chief Wapass thanked the Thunderchild students and staff for organizing the powwow and all the families and schools for coming to support their children.

Emcee James Thunderchild introduced the host drum, Big Bear, who played the honor song for the grand entry.

Elder Emma Okanee gave a prayer and blessing in Cree, followed by a welcome address given by principal Hussain Barbari and director of education, Ralph Morin.

After the introduction of the powwow princesses and a round of intertribals, Peggy Sunchild and Laverne Thunderchild led a march to honor the graduates of the nursery Cree immersion class.

After a hot chili and bannock lunch, hosted by Thunderchild, students from grades 1 to 12 joined in an afternoon of dance competition, men's and ladies free style, intertribals and owl dance.

It was also a special day to remember; for parents, grandparents, family and friends to join in a memorial procession to celebrate the legacy of an exceptional young traditional dancer, Sundance Traveler Wapass, who died in a car accident last October at the age of eight.

Fifteen junior traditional dancers, lead by younger brother Montana Rain Wapass, danced a memorial honor circle to pay their tribute to Sundance, brother, friend and fellow dancer.

After the staff introductions and presentations, a long procession of students and dancers danced out the flags and eagle staff and prepared for the journey home.