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Invited Youth Drum for the Eighth Annual Mattagami First Nation Powwow were the Northern Spirit Singers of Brunswick House First Nation. From L-R are: Ethanial Wesley, Brennan Briscoe, Jason Saunders, Jacy Jolivet, Amadeus Neshawabin, Wilfred Tangie-Redbreast and Dreyden Agawa. Photo by Xavier Kataquapit.
By Xavier Kataquapit
Windspeaker.com Contributor
The eagles were back overhead at the eighth annual Mattagami First Nation Powwow which took place on Aug. 18 and Aug. 19 in the community.
This tradition of the eagles visiting seemed more important than ever as the powwow was titled ‘Celebrating Our Land And Water’ and it was led by host drum High Ridge Singers, Moose Cree First Nation co-host drum Young Eagle Singers, North Bay and invited drum Northern Spirit Singers, Brunswick House Moose Cree First Nation.
“This is our day. The Powwow was the traditional way our people gathered in the past and we are happy to be presenting it now for the eighth year. I welcome all those who came to share this weekend with us and I give thanks to all those who worked so hard to make it happen,” said Chief Chad Boissoneau.
There was an air of excitement and pride as the newly-elected Nishnawbe-Aski Nation (NAN) Deputy Grand Chief Walter Naveau returned home from his recent election success.
Calee Boissoneau Hunter and Tessa Thomas take part in a contest at the Eighth Annual Mattagami First Nation Powwow. Photo by Xavier Kataquapit.
Naveau is also a past chief of Mattagami First Nation. There was an honour song dedicated to him and also for re-elected NAN Deputy Grand Chief Jason Smallboy of Moose Cree First Nation, who was also at the Powwow. Elders were Alex Jacobs and Clara Prince of Nipissing First Nation.
“It makes my heart feel good to be here today as your Deputy Grand Chief for NAN, and I am happy to be seeing so many family and friends here this weekend. This powwow is dedicated to the land and water and I have worked over the years and will continue to strive to keep our traditional values at the forefront as we move forward,” said Naveau.
The two-day event was guided by emcee Greg ‘Mista Wasis’ Dreaver, Treaty 6 Territory, Sask. and Arena Director Gerald Chum, Moose Cree First Nation.
The powwow fire was watched over by Fire Keeper Morrison Solomon of Neyaashiinigmiing (Chippewas of Nawash) First Nation. Many local youth assisted with the event.
“I am finding it exciting to be at the powwow and helping out. There are so many people here and a lot of good things happening this weekend,” said 14-year-old Kaleb Naveau.
Dana Cosgrove, a Mattagami First Nation member and traditional dancer, was the lead organizer of the event.
Powwow Elders were Grandfather Alex Jacobs and Grandmother Clara Prince, of Nipissing First Nation. Photo by Xavier Kataquapit.
“I am so grateful for all the support and the assistance we get from our chief and council and the community. It feels great to see everyone viewing and participating in our traditional ways. I am also very proud of our young people who are beginning to dance,” said Cosgrove.
Theland Kicknosway, a hoop dancer, thrilled everyone in an evening performance that featured glowing hoops.
Community members spent the day’s events visiting old and new friends while snacking from local vendors that sold traditional foods, including moose and fish, and modern treats such as funnel cake and ice cream. Vendors also included local artists and artisans who sold artwork and traditional crafts.
The first day of events also featured a morning breakfast and an afternoon feast which was organized by Tracy Harnack with volunteer family members and friends.
Back row from L-R are: Dana Cosgrove, Pow Wow Coordinator; MC Greg ‘Mista Wasis’ Dreaver, Deputy Grand Chief Walter Naveau, Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN); Mattagami FN Chief Chad Boissoneau, Deputy Grand Chief Jason Smallboy, NAN; Arena Director Gerald Chum, Moose Cree FN and Ron Shisheesh, Drummer and Singer. In front are community youth dancers Tatum Naveau and Tessa Thomas. Photo by Xavier Kataquapit.