Kanesatake powwow dates announced

For Shirley Bonspille, one of the organizers of the annual Kanehsatà:ke Traditional Powwow, it’s impossible to choose a favourite part of the event, but it’s clear the drum is one of the most memorable features for her.

“When you feel the drums pounding, and you can feel that underneath your feet, it’s an experience you have to experience. You’ve just got to feel it,” she said.

Spirit Wolf Singers will be returning as host drum, but of course all the powwow staples will be there, including dancers, craft vendors, and food sellers - fans of the Indian taco need not worry - and some participants are already booked.

“We love to share our culture and our foods, different types of foods that we do,” said Bonspille. “Our arts and crafts help out the vendors. It’s beautiful work. Good company, good friends, making new friends from across North America, which is awesome.”

Volunteers are still needed, however, with spots open on the powwow committee.

Those interested in vending or volunteering can contact Bonspille at [email protected].

“We’re requesting everything that is handmade, nothing that is bought from out west or whatever that is shipped in. We’re asking for your own personal crafts,” Bonspille said.

“We have so many talented beadworkers here and leatherwork and baskets. It’s a shame to keep it hidden. We want them out here. Show your beautiful artwork, show your work and show your craft.”

Community member Dina Filippelli, who operates Wolf Crafts, will be one of the vendors. She has had a booth at the powwow since the mid-90s.

“My experience has always been great,” she said. “People come out and encourage me and my business by buying from me, and it’s nice to see people that we don’t get to see very often and can catch up with small chit chat,” she said.

She’s crossing her fingers for good weather that will encourage crowds to come take part in the meaningful experience that is the Kanesatake powwow.

“It’s meant to remember the sacrifices and the hardships, the pain we went through fighting for what’s ours and protecting our land,” said Filippelli in describing what the powwow means to her.

“July 11 was a big day that happened here, and this year’s the 35th anniversary of that day,” said Bonspille, noting the significance of this year’s edition. “We want to honour the ones that were there that are still here and the ones that passed on since then. We would like to honour them and show our thanks for them standing up for our community. It’s a day that the world knew what was going on, that they’re still trying to steal our land.”

Everyone is welcome, she said, and she’s hoping for a big turnout.

“What I appreciate is a lot of the comments. I go around, and they love to come. The scenery around here is so beautiful at the powwow. We’re surrounded by pine trees. It’s the best feeling in the world,” she said.

The powwow will be held from August 30-31 at the powwow grounds starting at 10 a.m. each day, with grand entry at noon. Camping is available for $20.

[email protected]

Marcus Bankuti, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter