Here is another late post. A month ago, I went to a Pow wow in Gull Bay. It was my first real experience into Native culture up here.
The first thing that we did was go over to Jessica's mother's house. Jessica and her children were all dancing in the pow wow and since Armstrong and Gull Bay are about 45 minutes apart, we went over to her mother's house first so that she could get the girl's hair done and her makeup done.
Then, we headed over to the pow wow grounds where they all got dressed in their outfits.
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From left: Serena, Jessica, Alya, Marty, Jessica's brother in law (William, her son, decided that he didn't want to be in the photo at that point) |
Once everyone got ready, then they started with the opening ceremonies. Apparently, I wasn't supposed to take photos during the opening ceremonies but I didn't realize this until a lady told me . Everyone dances in during the opening ceremonies and then afterwards, people filter in and out depending on how they "feel" the music and if there are competitive dances.
As you get older, you earn more distinction and are able to add more to your costume. Their are some exceptions though as younger people can have elaborate costumes if they have been passed down from their paternal lineage (which you will see with the Whitesand pow wow to be posted later).
After a while, they got organized and raised the flags. Marty was one of the flag bearers.
The dancing continued...
Jess is always very serious when she is thinking because you are supposed to dance based on how you feel about the music.
Then, I ended up going back to Armstrong with Dayna because I was tired.
Overall, it was a good time!
Hope you enjoy!
Kelly