The Township of Lake of Bays has agreed to donate $1,000 to the upcoming “See Muskoka Through Our Eyes” powwow.
The powwow is being held on June 29 and 30 at Annie Williams Memorial Park in Bracebridge.
Mayor Terry Glover brought the idea to council. He told his colleagues the organizers were concerned about having to raise around $15,000 prior to the event starting later this month.
“Fortunately, the powwow’s financial situation is in pretty good shape,” continued Glover. “It was looking really grim. It’s really picked up, though.”
Glover also challenged the five other municipal councils in Muskoka to contribute to the powwow.
He explained how it was “hundreds of years ago” when First Nations initially met on the Muskoka River, noting the park the powwow is being held at is along the same body of water.
Glover added this is the first time in a while a powwow has been held in the area that isn’t on a reservation.
According to the powwow’s website, the event begins with a sunrise ceremony around 5:30 a.m. with most activities beginning after 8 a.m. and wrapping up around 10 p.m.
The next day, festivities start around 8 a.m. and continue until 5 p.m.
The event is geared for families – Indigenous and non-Indigenous – with activities including traditional dancing, singing and drumming workshops, craft and food vendors, plus events organized specifically for men, women, and children.
“At “See Muskoka Through Our Eyes,” our mission is to honor and preserve the traditions of the Indigenous communities through the annual traditional powwow event,” it says on the website. “We aim to create a welcoming space for cultural exchange and mutual respect.”
