The two-day Competition Pow Wow held by Caldwell First Nation August 9 and 10 included many dancers, singers, drummers and various food and craft vendors on the Caldwell First Nation Reserve located on Mersea Road 1.
“As Anishinaabe people, it is our custom and sacred responsibility to welcome guests into our territory with warmth, respect and kindness,” Caldwell First Nation Chief Nikki Van Oirschot said to the large crowd gathered Saturday afternoon under the main tent to watch the Grand Entry.
“Our Pow Wow is a time to gather, to celebrate and to share the beauty and strength of who we are with all nations, First Nations, and non-First Nations alike. Whether you have travelled from near or far, we welcome you in friendship and unity.”
“Our last Pow Wow, the Repatriation Pow Wow in 2016, marked a homecoming for our people after generations and approximately 220 years of displacement, “ she said.
“This year, we come together again, not only to celebrate but to affirm our rightful place on the land, to strengthen our relationships, and to honour the resilience of our people. Our goal is to restore the annual traditions of Pow Wows on our lands, as treatment to our sovereignty, our culture and our living connection to this territory,” said Chief Van Oirschot.
More than a dozen dignitaries and other First Nations chiefs were on hand with greetings to also commemorate the occasion.
“We extend our gratitude to the surrounding municipalities, towns, cities, neighbouring First Nations and urban Indigenous community members for your friendship and continued support,” continued the Chief. “Our treaties guide us in peaceful coexistence, and gatherings like this reaffirm those bonds of respect, reciprocity and kinship. Miigwech, chi-miigwech, thank-you for joining us on this sacred and joyous occasion.”
One of many Indigenous dancers performing during the Grand Entry for the Caldwell Pow Wow on Saturday, August 9.
SUN photo by Deanna Bertrand
Caldwell First Nation Chief Nikki Van Oirschot speaks at the Pow Wow.
SUN photo by Deanna Bertrand
Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald speaks at the Grand Entry as Caldwell Chief Nikki Van Oirschot looks on.
SUN photo by Deanna Bertrand
