Powwow circuit honors family traditions

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The green, gently rolling hills of the Thunderchild Reserve in Saskatchewan never looked more beautiful or welcoming than at the 33 rd Powwow, held at the end of July.

Thunderchild, which is located near the town of Turtleford and Turtle Lake, played host to an old-time celebration of song, dance and drumming.

Held in an open air arbor and cushioned by well manicured natural grass, dancers really seem to appreciate the cultural event and look forward to the powwow circuit.

The weekend was filled with deep blue skies, white clouds and a stunning midnight display of constellations. Northern lights added to the mood and magic of the festivities.

The 33rd powwow opened with a grand entry with the flag and victory song sung by the Canadian host drum, Red Bull and a welcoming address given by Chief Winston Weekush and FSIN Chief Perry Belgarde.

The Bold Eagle Troup from Wainwright, Alberta joined in processional with Elders, veterans and visiting dignitaries after the flag raising ceremony outside the arbor.

Powwow committee president Leonard Paddy gave a welcoming speech and set the mood for the dance competitions, specials and the Wapass family initiation that followed.

If you have ever wondered what was going on when all the dancing and noise at a festive Powwow suddenly stops and a dignified family processional starts to slowly make it's way around an arena, then you are probably seeing a family special initiation.

The Wapass family of Thunderchild held an initiation and giveaway for the two young sons of Arnold and Renita Wapass.

Sundance, 5, and his brother Montana, 3, were formally welcomed into the circle, assisted by two Elders, to take their place as dancers and be presented to the community.

The giveaway by the family, which included gifts, tobacco and money, is used to honor the Elders and show thanks to the drummers, singers and dancers who supported the children throughout their initiation.

Another interesting display of artistry was delivered by the American host drum, the Spotted Eagle Singers from New Mexico, who entertained with a large colorful Navaho drum and sang in the slightly faster, upbeat southern style, much to the delight of the dancers and audience.

Amos and Edith Yazzie, along with their sons, daughters and son-in-law, Damian Bear said that travelling 'way up north' to Canada was always an exciting part of their year round trek around the Continental Powwow circuit, a tradition that they had been carrying on in the family for about twenty years.

Thunderchild is to commended this year for having for an outstanding security force, including three Native RCMP officers, an extremely well ordered parking and camp site and their pride and strong focus in keeping the Powwow grounds very clean and tidy over the long weekend.

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