Performance at 2019 Heart of Our Youth Pow Wow. (File Photo/paNOW Staff)

By Jaryn Vecchio

Powwow

Youth powwow once again being held live in P.A.

May 26, 2022 | 12:00 PM

The Heart of Our Youth powwow is taking place in person once again in Prince Albert.

The event has been held virtually the past couple of years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

It’s been an annual gathering since 2018 with youth getting the opportunity to take charge and oversee the coordination and planning.

One thing guests may notice when attending this year’s event is the difference in who’s dancing with whom.

Powwow committee member Jennifer Lenny told paNOW groups are no longer separated by gender.

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“It’s by style, grass dance style or ribbon dress style or buckskin.”

This was a move initially brought in during last year’s powwow which was recorded and shown virtually.

As for why, it’s to ensure 2-spirit youth can be acknowledged and celebrated in the powwow circles. Elders were consulted but it was the youth who pushed for the change.

“They were asking about their place in the powwow circle,” added Lenny.

This is one of the latest steps taken to support the 2SLGBTQ community by the Heart of Our Youth powwow. They previously brought in a rainbow flag and a formal acknowledgment through a statement of inclusion.

The powwow will be held at the Kinsmen Park Ball Diamond on May 27 with the grand entry starting at 10 a.m. Lunch will be provided; however, guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs or blankets.

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Jaryn.Vecchio@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @princealbertnow