MEDIA RELEASE — January 16, 2026 — R0004

As Brock University welcomed people of all nations to campus on Friday, the fresh blanket of glistening white snow outside reflected the powerful sense of renewal that accompanies winter pow wows.

Hosted by the Hadiya’dagénhahs First Nations, Métis and Inuit Student Centre with support from across the University, the “Cleansing our Spirits” Pow Wow took place in the Ian Beddis Gymnasium on Jan. 16.

Thousands attended the free community gathering, which is a vibrant celebration of Indigenous music, dance, art and cuisine.

Robyn Bourgeois, Associate Professor of Women’s and Gender Studies and Vice-Provost, Indigenous Engagement, said it is incredible to be marking the third iteration of the event at Brock.

“Pow wows are significant cultural events for Indigenous communities — a time for dancing, music, visiting and celebration,” said Bourgeois, a mixed-race woman whose Cree family comes from Treaty 8 (Lesser Slave Lake) territory. “I am so proud and grateful that Brock University has committed to supporting this event and the significant commitment to decolonization and reconciliation it represents.”

Grand Entry marked the official start to the day and honoured Elders (including Head Elders Peter Beaucage and Jackie Labonte), veterans (including Head Veteran Jason Isaacs), Brock leaders, dignitaries and dancers who presented various flags of significance.

A packed day of dancing and music followed, with participation from across the province including Head Dancers Delbert Jonathan and Lorna Chrysler, Host Drum Charging Horse, Co-Host Drum Little Creek, and Invited Drum The 416. Head Youths were Alexis Isaacs and Ganrahse’:Twas.

Frazer Phillips provided songs to accompany the women and men’s smoke dance special, a unique addition to the Pow Wow at Brock.

Jordan Williams White-Eye, Pow Wow Master of Ceremonies and spiritual advisor, said the event represents unity and acceptance and is an opportunity for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to come together in shared celebration.

“We are showcasing who we are and how we showcase ourselves to the Creator through dance and songs and a celebration of life,” said White-Eye, who travelled to Pow Wow from Bkejwanong Territory, formerly Walpole Island First Nation, in southwestern Ontario.

Hadiya’dagénhahs Centre Operations Supervisor Syerra Jasmin (BA ’19, BEd ’22), who is of mixed Anishinaabe-Ojibwe heritage, said the Pow Wow organizers are grateful for the guidance of leaders like White-Eye and others who supported the event. 

“I could almost cry thinking about how many folks have dedicated so much of their time to be here and make this event a success,” she said. “People are always so excited to come out, and as more communities and nations hear about the Pow Wow, it is only going to grow. I’m so excited to see for what’s in store in the future.”

Cindy Biancaniello, Director of Hadiya’dagénhahs, beamed with pride as she reflected on all that had been accomplished.

“I’m still smiling and filled with joy,” she said. “Our team really put the ‘wow’ in Pow Wow.”
 

 For more information or for assistance arranging interviews:

 *Sarah Ackles, Communications Specialist, Brock University [email protected] or 289-241-5483

 – 30 –