J.S.C.N traditional powwow honours youth
In the early 1900s there was a major push to put an outright ban on powwow gatherings across Canada, and in the mid-50s that ban was lifted allowing First Nations to gather where and when they wanted.
James Smith Cree Nation started its fifth annual powwow off, July 8 with a literal bang, as shortly after the grand entry a number of lightning bolts flashed in the skies around the Fort a la Corne cultural grounds.
This year’s powwow is dedicated to honouring the youth, according to Cynthia Twist, secretary of the James Smith Cree Nation powwow committee.
“We’ve had a number of losses within the community and we want to show the youth that we care, that we’re here for them, and that we respect them,” Twist said.