THUNDER BAY – Clyde Moonias believes education and understanding are key pillars of eliminating racism.
The president of the Lakehead University Native Students’ Association said being exposed to elements of Aboriginal way of life, such as powwows, help break down barriers.
“For a non-Aboriginal person to learn about the Aboriginal culture is a big change from their culture and their perspectives,” he said.
“There has been a lot of racism in Thunder Bay and all of the stereotypes are not what they seem. Aboriginal people are more than a stereotype. We’re a nation of people.”
LUNSA hosted their 27th annual powwow over the past three days the CJ Sanders Fieldhouse, with the celebration wrapping up on Sunday afternoon.
The powwow opened on Friday night and proceeded all day Saturday with two grand entries and a traditional feast.
The festivities resumed early Sunday afternoon with a grand entry before concluding in the late afternoon.
Moonias said he heard from many students who had been attending their first powwow.
“Over the past day and a half I’ve had a lot of students coming to me and asking me questions,” he said. “They said they really enjoyed the dancing, enjoyed singing, really enjoyed the regalia the dancers wear and are overwhelmed and surprised.”
The Lakehead powwow is the traditional start to the season, with people travelling from all over the region to take part.
“This pow wow is important to the culture and the community because it brings everyone together to celebrate the diverse culture of the Aboriginal people,” Moonias said.
“This event brings people from all over Northwestern Ontario. There are people from Kenora, Fort Frances, Sault Ste. Marie, Nipigon and Greenstone.”
Nathan Moses, who has served as the master of ceremonies for the past few years, strives to deliver spiritual teachings while keeping the atmosphere light.
With spring officially here and most of the snow beginning to melt, the powwow represents a new beginning.
“It’s the season of spring and this is a brand new journey for the people to start fresh for powwow trail,” Moses said. “No matter who you are, or your background, we are here together to serve each other in a good way.”
