Local family enjoys creating powwow traditions
Even though Rocky Baptiste Jr. is only two-and-a-half years old, Tracie King, a woman originally from Meadow Lake, has had her son involved in powwows for over half his life.
She was inspired to get Rocky Jr. involved in the powwow since her step-daughter, who is now 20, has been a fancy dancer for years. It’s also been a long-standing tradition for her husband Rocky Sr.’s family.
Yesterday was the second time Rocky Jr. participated in the Red Pheasant ‘Tiny Tot’ dance category. Last year, he was crowned as a Little Warrior for 2017 for the First Nation, which meant he represented the community at other powwows, and participated in the Grand Entries along with chiefs, and dignitaries. After passing on the title, a new young dancer will be named today, but Rocky Jr. also danced into the powwow circle with more senior participants in a special dance.
King said it is meaningful for the whole family in a number of ways, but it has also been a fascinating and significant learning process for her as well. She created Rocky Jr.’s dance regalia mostly on her own with guidance from family and friends experienced in the art. The colours in the clothing were carefully chosen, as they represent Rocky’s Indigenous name, Okemow Kihiw which means King/Chief Eagle.