It was an occasion to celebrate Mi’kmaq culture and strengthen community bonds.
Hundreds of people converged on the west coast community of Flat Bay from July 8 to 10 to take part in the fifth annual Bay St. George Powwow.
“It doesn’t matter where you come from or what your life was like growing up – this is where you come to be renewed, this is where your family is,” said Liz Lasaga, chief of the Flat Bay Indian Band. “This is also a place for you to be washed clean of any pain or any regret that you have.”
In addition to dancing, drumming and singing around a traditional arbour, the powwow included such things as sunrise ceremonies, a sweat lodge and a sacred fire.
“It doesn’t matter where you come from or what your life was like growing up – this is where you come to be renewed, this is where your family is." - Liz Lasaga, chief of the Flat Bay Indian Band
Kyle LaForme travelled from his home in Dunville, Ont., to participate in the three-day event.
“I love it, I don’t want to leave,” he said. “And I’ve already booked my flight to come back next year.”
The powwow was hosted by the Bay St. George Mi’kmaq Revival Committee and the Flat Bay Indian Band.
Click here for a slideshow of powwow highlights.
