The Pheasant Rump Nakota First Nations (PRNFN) community gathered this past weekend for their annual powwow, an event marked by vibrant cultural celebrations, traditional dances and a poignant memorial dance dedicated to Kendra Kakakaway, known as White Thunderbird Woman.
The powwow was held at the grounds off of highway 13, north of Kisbey, under a huge white tent, which housed everyone out of the elemments, and brought together members from across the region to honour their heritage and remember a cherished member of their community.
Kendra Kakakaway, whose life was tragically cut short was celebrated in a special dance, which offered $20,000 in prizes, including special blankets, beaded necklaces, sweaters, and earrings.
This special event was hosted by the Kakakaway and McArthur family with a traditional dance, Fancy Shawl, and jingle dress competition, and it was very well attended.
The memorial dance was a heartfelt tribute that saw friends, family, and community members come together in a display of unity and respect.
Another special event was the James McArthur Chicken Dance special for men over 18 years of age which paid out $10,000 in prizes to the dancers along with a star blanket.
This was to celebrate the 90 birthday of James McArthur who was chief of PRNFN from 1993-1999 and a decorated veteran of the Korean war from 1951-1954 with the Canadian Army and Vietnam from 1965-1968 with the U.S.A. Army.
The family believes in uplifting and honouring their elder and esteemed members by hosting this special.
Hundreds of visitors gathered under the tent to watch the Grand Entry which occurred Saturday and Sunday at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Each Grand Entry the dancers wore their colourful regalia decorated in beads, feathers, and bones to dance to the steady beat of the drummers.
The event kicked off with the Grand Entry on Friday evening with a powerful procession of dancers in full regalis accompanied by the rhythmic beats of traditional drummers by host drummers Tatanka Kuwa.
The air was filled with the sounds of singing and drumming, creating an atmosphere that was both celebratory and reverent.
This years powwow featured a range of dance categories, including traditional, fancy, jungle, and grass dances, showcasing the diverse talents of the participants.
Throughout the powwow attendees also had the opportunity to engage in various cultural activities, including storytelling, and a marketplace featuring handmade goods.
A multitude of food was available with the traditional Bannock burgers and plenty of non-alcoholic drinks.
The event served as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of the PRNFN and the importance of passing these traditions on to future generations.
In the afternoon on Sunday a feast was held at the Recreation Centre for all elders, singers, dancers, and visitors.
The final grand entry followed at 7 p.m. and continued until all competitions were completed.
The PRNFN powwow with its mix of celebration and remembrance stands as a powerful example of how communities can come together to honour their past while looking forward to the future.
The memorial dance for Kendra Kakakaway was a poignant highlight, ensuring her legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
The James McArthur celebration of his 90 birthday, will be events that will always be remembered.
