It started with a couple of drums and a handful of dancers.
But in the 25 years since, the Lakehead Univeristy Native Student Association’s annual powwow has grown into a three day event that packs the C.J. Sanders Fieldhouse.
“It’s grown to this major event that marks the beginning of the powwow season,” LUNSA president Sarah Nelson said.
There are nearly 20 drum groups and 300 dancers over the course of the weekend while 1,000 people are on hand at any given time. It’s a sign of how much more inclusive the school is Nelson said.
“I think our community just saw a greater need for that presence at the university,” she said.
John Gagnon said it’s also the first chance that dancers have to get together with friends and family in the powwow season.
“It’s been a long winter, most of us dancers have been anticipating this day,” he said.
Dancing is a great way to rejuvenate yourself.
“The way I when I was introduced to powwow it’s dancing for healing dancing for the creator,” Gagnon said.
Outfits are beautifully detailed with feathers and beadwork. Gagnon said his took him nearly a year to complete.
“Depends on how long you want to take,” he said.
The powwow continue Sunday.
