Algoma University's 19th Annual Gathering at the Rapids Pow Wow has some lofty goals.
“There are three long term visions for the Gathering,” explained Paul Sayers, Manager, Indigenous Community Relations, Training and Development at Algoma University.
He continued, “The first is to become the largest competition Pow Wow in Ontario; second is to sustain and increase corporate and community sponsorships to elevate the Pow Wow to become the largest in Ontario. The third, to increase Indigenous enrolment numbers and Algoma University's profile as a university of choice in the Indigenous community.”
The Pow Wow is well on its way to meeting its goals, growing so much this year that the event has moved from the George Leach Centre on the Algoma University campus to the GFL Memorial Gardens, to accommodate a much larger number of participants and spectators.
The Pow Wow has also secured OLG as its primary corporate sponsor.
Other sponsorships and partnerships this year include City of Sault Ste. Marie, Algoma Steel, Garden River First Nation, Batchewana First Nation, Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services, Waabinong Head Start, Indigenous Friendship Centre of Sault Ste. Marie, Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig, Metis Nation of Ontario, Algoma District School Board, Huron Superior Catholic District School Board, Quattro and Delta Marriott.
“This annual celebration of Anishinaabe culture welcomes everyone to attend and participate and includes traditional drumming, singing and competition dancing,” said Sayers. “Further, it provides an opportunity for Indigenous artisans, craftsmen and traders to display and sell their work at the event.”
The Pow Wow will take place February 15 and 16 and is led by Algoma University's Makwa Waakaa'igan, Anishinaabe Academic Resource Centre and the Shingwauk Anishinaabe Student's Association.
“Gathering at the Rapids is the largest Pow Wow in the area and is a time for us to gather, dance, sing, and honour the traditions of our ancestors,” explained Sayers.
He added, “It is also an opportunity for Algoma University to educate and bring awareness to the community about Anishinaabe culture and traditions. It also provides an opportunity to promote Chief Shingwauk's vision and Special Mission which guides the work of Algoma University. Enrolment and employment opportunities at Algoma are also highlighted throughout the weekend.”
Gathering will include a Grand Entry and competitions all weekend long, including drumming, and dancing in all different styles, ages, and genders. Winners will received prize money as determined by the head judges.
Entrance to Gathering is free of charge, and a wristband policy will be in effect.
“We welcome everyone to attend Algoma University's 19th Annual Gathering at the Rapids Pow Wow, taking place in our new, larger venue: the GFL Memorial Gardens,” invited Sayers.
“Our gathering is not only open to the Anishinaabe community but to anyone who wants to celebrate and learn more about the best of Anishinaabe culture. See you on February 15 and 16!”
