REGINA — The Powwow is a pillar of Indigeneity across Canada. A warm gathering of community – a way for different nations to gather and share song, experiences, make new friends and connect with old ones.

The First Nations University of Canada is hosting their spring powwow April 20 and 21 in Regina.

Celebrations like this have a storied history in Canada – with the Indian Act of 1876 outlawing the celebrations and prohibiting Indigenous peoples across the country from wearing traditional outfits, and conducting spiritual and cultural ceremonies. Subsequent amendments to the act confirmed these bans – and further drove the oppression of Indigenous peoples.

Here in Saskatchewan the Standing Buffalo Dakota Nation and the Thunderchild First Nation held powwows for more than 75 years, all while under the rule of the Indian Act. Communities continued to celebrate despite the racism and prejudice that was at the root of Canadian and American bans of these events. A steadfast showing of resolute strength in the face of a sinister attempt to eradicate Indigenous culture. These nations refused to be oppressed.