It was a colourful weekend of song, dance and culture on St. Mary's First Nation in New Brunswick for the community's annual powwow.
The event is one of the best-attended in the region, and is part of a summer schedule of powwow's all across the Maritimes.
“For more understanding of who we are as people, and to clear up all those myths that we are people with pride and want to coexist in this world,” said Candace Paul of St. Mary’s First Nation.
The weekend includes cultural dances and drumming, along with songs and story that date back generations.
But Paul says inclusion is at the centre of it all.
“It’s much better to live in a positive environment instead of a negative,” said Paul. “That’s what powwow is all about, bringing people together in a happy time.”
Youth are also an important part of the event. The younger generation takes the responsibility of educating themselves about their heritage, as well as educating others.
“Everything we do, every step we take, has a purpose,” said Keigan Sack of Sipekne'katik First Nation “That’s something I take passionately, to educate people and let them know that we're here for a reason.”
Powwows will be happening at New Brunswick First Nations all summer long.
“Every individual community has their own powwow, so at the end of this one, they go right into planning and they keep going,” said Nipahtuwet Naka Wespahtuwet Possesom of St. Mary's First Nation.
All members of the public are invited to attend.
“If you're here or if you ever go to a powwow in your life, make sure you participate and you get the full experience of what we’re doing here as a people,” said Keigan Sack.
Tobique First Nation holds it powwow next weekend.
With files from CTV Atlantic’s Nick Moore.
