A powerful celebration of Indigenous culture and tradition will return to Brock in January, and there are lots of opportunities for everyone in the University and broader community to get involved.

The third annual Pow Wow takes place in the University’s Ian Beddis Gymnasium on Friday, Jan. 16 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The free community event is hosted by the Hadiya’dagénhahs First Nations, Métis and Inuit Student Centre with support from across the Brock community.

Focused on celebrating Indigenous identities, building community and bringing healing, the family-friendly event is open to Indigenous and non-Indigenous people of all ages.

The day will feature a vibrant display of Indigenous music, dance, drumming, art and cuisine. Guests can visit a full slate of Indigenous vendors and explore information booths beginning at 11 a.m. Grand Entry, which signals the official beginning of the Pow Wow, will take place at noon.

“This is Hadiya’dagénhahs First Nations, Métis and Inuit Student Centre’s first large-scale event of the term following exams and the winter break. It is also the concluding event of Brock’s Frost Week,” said Evelyn Dilworth, Event Coordinator at Hadiya’dagénhahs. “The Cleansing our Spirits Pow Wow is an opportunity to gather, heal, celebrate and start fresh in the new term.”

Organizers are seeking student volunteers to support in the day-of operations of the Pow Wow.

Jenna Moorhead, Community Experience Co-ordinator with Student Life and Success, says volunteering at the Pow Wow allows students to take a hands-on approach to Truth and Reconciliation.

“With every smile, wave and helpful action, our students will have the opportunity to take part in meaningful actions that showcase that our campus is a welcoming and safe space for Indigenous culture,” she said.

Brock students can sign up to volunteer for a variety of tasks, including assisting with wayfinding and parking, greeting and checking in guests, and supporting vendor fair and food provider operations.

Volunteers will be provided with a free t-shirt and meal voucher and will gain volunteer experience that can be counted toward completion of the Campus-Wide Co-Curriculum.

Questions related to volunteering at the Pow Wow can be directed to Moorhead at [email protected]

For more information about the event, contact [email protected] or visit the Pow Wow website, Instagram, Facebook and ExperienceBU page.