By Dominique Liboiron
Drum beats thundered in the Cypress Hills last weekend. The Nekaneet
First Nation hosted the Thundering Hills Powwow May 10-11 at the arena.
The Prairie provinces were well-represented and some attendees came
from as far away as North Dakota, Montana and Idaho to participate in
various dances and special events.
After a long winter, the first powwow of the season was a chance to
renew old friendships and start up new ones. It was also important on
Mothers’ Day to honour the lifegivers who are the backbone of every
community.
Dale Mosquito spoke on behalf of the organization committee and
explained powwows are a form of training or growth that focuses on the
physical, spiritual, social and mental aspects of life. He said the
dancers condition their bodies and seek guidance during the pipe
ceremony. The participants and spectators have a chance to socialize
while elders pass on knowledge and children learn from watching the
performances.
Mosquito witnessed an example of hands-on education when Raymond
Mosquito and his 19-month-old son Kuren Rayne were at the heart of a
special ceremony.
Raymond and his son were initiated into the powwow circle.
|
