Pow wow presents opportunity to 'renew our connection'

As hosts, the North Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre made it clear this weekend's Maamwi Kindaaswin Pow Wow was open to all and hundreds had already descended on Lee Park for the grand entry Saturday at noon as hundreds more arrived on their heels.

This year's theme was "Renewing Our Connection," as participants are "once again able to gather with each other, and dance with our Ancestors," say pow wow organizers. 

The days started early this weekend with sunrise ceremonies. The drums and dancing later took centre stage as all were welcome to take in — and participate in — the festivities. 

Nipissing First Nation Chief Scott McLeod welcomed all attendees, then thanked the crowd of non-Indigenous people who showed up to learn and form partnerships with their Indigenous neighbours, saying they had already embarked on their journey of truth and reconciliation.

The NBIFC Maamwi Kindaaswin Pow Wow was a free event and was billed as a "great event for families and a chance to reconnect with each other, our environment and our spirit." All were welcome. The pow wow included 20-plus Indigenous vendors, drum groups, and dancing for everyone.