UWinnipeg will be honouring our Indigenous (First Nations, Métis, and Inuit) grads at the 20th annual Graduation Pow Wow on May 4. This Pow Wow is one of three during the weekend including RRC Polytech on May 2, and The University of Manitoba on May 3.
“This is a big anniversary year,” said Sarah DeLaronde Atkinson, Indigenous Student Services (ISSC) Coordinator. “So much work has been done over the past 20 years and it’s great to be able to celebrate and come together to honour the work of our students, staff, faculty and community that make it possible for our students to be successful.”
The Pow Wow will once again feature a Red Dress Special in honour of Red Dress Day (May 5) and National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S+). The Special will include a ceremony to honour graduates who are family members of MMIWG2S+ and will be hosted by Giganawenimaanaanig (also known as the Manitoba MMIWG2S+ Coalition).
The celebrations take place at Duckworth Centre, 400 Spence St., on May 4, starting with a Pipe and Water Ceremony at 11:00 a.m. followed by the Grand Entry at 12:30 p.m. Grads will be honoured prior to any contests.
Anyone and everyone are welcome to attend, including Veterans. There is no registration required for general attendance. Dancers and drummers will receive an honourarium and are encouraged to register starting at 10 a.m.
ISSC asks that attendees are respectful of the dancers and grads. Volunteers and staff will be on site to answer any questions.
Contests are for all ages, including Tiny Tots, Junior, Teens, Adult, and Golden Age categories. Dance categories will include Jingle, Traditional, Fancy Shawl, Traditional Bustle, Grass, and Red Dress Special.
Craft vendors will also be set up at the event, and a community feast will be held at 2:30 p.m.
For more information visit the Graduation Pow Wow event page.
10:00 a.m. – Registration for dancers and drummers
11:00 a.m. – Pipe and water ceremony
12:30 p.m. – Grand entry
2:30 p.m. – Feast
Master of Ceremonies – Kyle Copenace
Arena Director – Tyson Henry
Hosted by – UW Indigenous Student Services Centre
