KAMSACK — Kamsack Comprehensive Institute (KCI) celebrated its second annual inter-school powwow.
The June 19 event at the KCI grounds brought together students, staff, and community members to celebrate Indigenous culture and foster mutual understanding.
“We’re so blessed to have a beautiful day today,” said Loretta Friday in her speech. “I welcome each and every one of you to enjoy your day, have fun, and visit with each other. It’s a privilege to be part of this and to be on Treaty 4 territory, sharing our culture and gaining more understanding. I bless each and every one of you. Have a good day.”
Bryan Cote, a director of the pow-wow, echoed the sentiment of community and celebration, emphasizing the event’s growth.
“Good to see you, my relatives. This is a very good second event. Every year it gets bigger and bigger. Next year, it will be even larger. Congratulations to all the graduates. I also want to acknowledge the partnership we have with GSSD schools, Keeseekoose, and Cote and this is through the ISSI Program, funded through the Educational Partnership Program (EPP). This relationship between our First Nations and communities is great. At one time, we were living on the earth and living on the moon. We didn’t get together like this in the past, but now this is history and is groundbreaking.”
Arlene Pinay, Superintendent of Indigenous Education, also expressed her excitement.
“I’m really excited to be here at the second annual powwow. Thank you to the elder for the prayers this morning, and congratulations to the graduates. I’m really happy to see we have pretty good weather for this today. Greetings to everyone on behalf of our Indigenous education team, and have a great day.”
Quintin Robertson, Director of Education for the Good Spirit School Division, extended his welcome to all attendees.
“I welcome all of the guests and dignitaries. Thank you to the Elder for bringing prayers on behalf of all of us. This is our second annual inter-school powwow, and I couldn’t be prouder of the graduates participating in this event. Every year, I hope it becomes a larger and greater celebration.”
The powwow featured traditional dances, music, and cultural sharing, highlighting the importance of unity and education in celebrating Indigenous heritage. As the event grows each year, it stands as a testament to the strengthening bonds and collaborative spirit within the community.
