First Nations University of Canada holds 41st spring powwow

The First Nations University of Canada held its 41st annual spring powwow at the Brandt Centre last weekend and the chair of the event was hoping people came loaded with questions.

Richard Missens has helped students organize the powwow for 15 years, saying the event is for everyone to learn more about Indigenous cultures.

“When people ask us about what’s going on, we’re so proud and happy to be able to share that with them,” Missens said. “When people come, we want them to ask questions to learn, to inquire and to help you understand.”

Missens said a powwow is a celebration that’s held in the spring and summer, coming at a time of renewal in nature.

“This time of year is a healing time and the reason we say that is because Mother Earth, the plants, the animals are re-awakening … That energy that Mother Earth creates, helps lift us up as human beings,” he said.

There was lots to see and lots to hear during the event, which saw 700 dancers and 18 drum groups from all over North America participate, some coming from as far as Arizona. Missens said he expected as many as 7,000 people to attend over the weekend.

Missens said visitors tend to be the most interested in the regalia, which for each person is personal.

“You might have favourite colours, you might have a spiritual name that was given to you, you may have something in your family that’s historical that you want to honour and symbolically represent on your regalia,” he said.

“So every regalia is unique. It’s one of a kind. People spend thousands and thousands of hours preparing these outfits.”