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Story provided by Chelsea Isenor, Director of Communications and Board Administration

On June 13, 2024, Grade 5 students from 26 schools across the Kamloops-Thompson School District gathered at Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc Powwow Arbour for the annual District Powwow.

The day started with the Grand Procession led by District Principal Mike Bowden, carrying the Eagle Staff gifted to the District by Randy and Amanda Big Sorrel Horse. Joining the procession were RCMP representatives, District senior staff, dignitaries, and special guests, followed by nearly 1,000 students. 

Knowledge Keeper Jackie Jules, shared a welcome and prayer to begin the Powwow. The Sage Hill drummers sang and drummed the Flag Song and Victory Song, filling the arbour with powerful music and showcasing an important aspect of Indigenous history. Hand drummers then led the students in the Welcome Song to welcome all guests to a special day of learning. 

District Principal Mike Bowden shared opening remarks to welcome Elders, guests, students and teachers, and set the intentions for the day: “For those of you who this is the first time, a powwow is a special event where we celebrate Indigenous culture through dance, music, art, and storytelling… Throughout the day, you will witness a variety of traditional dances, each with its own unique history and significance. The drumming and singing you hear are not just music; they are the heartbeat of the people, carrying the rhythms and songs passed down through generations. As you watch the dancers in their regalia, understand that each piece they wear has meaning, often handmade and representing their family's history, achievements, and spiritual beliefs. The powwow arena, or circle, symbolizes the cycle of life, with no beginning and no end. This powwow is not just a celebration of the past but a beacon of hope for the future, highlighting the strength, resilience, and spirit of Indigenous people. This is an opportunity to educate, share, and learn the culture with all who attend, fostering understanding and respect.” 

RCMP Sgt. Troy Durand shared gratitude for being part of the day, noting this was his first powwow experience.

Superintendent Dr. Rhonda Nixon shared a message of hope for the future, acknowledging the importance of gathering and learning together: “As we experience the rich traditions in this District Powwow today, we acknowledge that we are located beside the “Le Estcwicwéy?, the missing children, who never made it home from the Kamloops Indian Residential School. While this tragic loss is palpable in the stories shared by those who experienced it and who continue to experience the unspeakable pain that continues, which makes it vital that we work together towards more hopeful futures for Indigenous children and youth. We work towards a more hopeful future by gathering as we are today to experience the joys of celebration through traditional ceremony. By gathering, celebrating, and learning together, we have committed to more hopeful futures for our youth.”

Chair of Aboriginal Education Council and Trustee Diane Jules shared a message on behalf of the Board of Education: “I am privileged to be here with staff and Grade 5 students from the Kamloops-Thompson School District to experience and take part in the ceremony of drumming, singing, and dancing, and the joy of being together in this spiritual place. As we see the beautiful regalia which is worn by dancers today, we are privileged to learn from these individuals about their families’ traditions and histories. While today is a day of fun and celebration, it is also a day of rich learning together in one of the most beautiful nationally known powwow arbours.”

Following remarks from digitaries and staff, Master of Ceremonies Gord Cuthbert and Arena Directors, Everett White and Randy Big Sorrel Horse, organised several songs and dances to be shared.

Master of Ceremonies, Gord Cuthbert guided students through the history, origins, and significance of different powwow dances. While students learned about the dances, they also experienced each dance with performances from Men’s and Women’s Traditional Dancers, Grass Dancers, Jingle Dancers, and Fancy Dancers. Students were also invited to dance in their classes to experience first hand what they were learning.

Guided by the First Peoples Principles of Learning, the day was spent learning about the powwow history and culture while watching and participating in songs, dance, storytelling, and games.

The District Powwow is made possible thanks to the dedicated support of staff, Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc, and volunteers, including seven student volunteers from the Aboriginal Student Leadership Council and Twin Rivers Education Centre, as well as volunteers from Qwelmi麓nte Secwe麓pemc. The knowledge shared by Elders, Knowledge Keepers, Arena Directors, and community members will be unforgettable lessons each student will carry with them into the future.