Grade 5 students from across SD73 take part in district powwow

Jun 11, 2026 | 4:23 PM

KAMLOOPS — More than 1,000 Grade 5 students from across SD73 gathered at the Tk’emlups Powwow Arbour on Thursday (June 11) for the sixth annual district powwow. The event is run as part of the district cultural and identity development priority, with the intent of educating students on the significance of the powwow to Indigenous cultures.

Not just experiencing a new culture but participating, were students from around Kamloops as they poured onto the grass to take part.

“I’ve been out there a couple times with my friends,” said Liam Connelly from Westmount Elementary. “It can be pretty nerve-wracking but like it is pretty fun to just get up and dance.”

“Since it’s a traditional dance, we are all kind of embarrassed because we don’t really know what we are doing, but yeah, it’s been fun,” added Alexandra Bowman from Pacific Way Elementary. “I think my favourite so far has been the chicken dance.”

While a first powwow for many, Nevaya St. Pierre, who is Metis, was adorned in her own ribbon skirt, thrilled to be sharing with her classmates something she loves.

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“It makes me feel happy. It makes me feel proud,” said St. Pierre, who attends Westmount. “I feel happy for all the kids who get to experience this because, personally, when I experience this, it makes me very happy and proud.”

“It’s really nice being able to experience all the different cultures,” added Pacific Way’s Cohan O’Lane. “Just how they all dance and sing. I just love how it’s all different but at the same time connected.”

It’s the sixth year the district has put on the powwow, calling it a highlight of the calendar every time.

“I’ve seen things evolve from when Indigenous student where ashamed of who they were and their identity and other students – almost scared of what that was – to this kind of an atmosphere, where all of the students are involved and it’s okay celebrate who you are and join in in that sharing of culture. It’s amazing to see,” said SD73 District Principal of Indigenous Education Mike Bowden.

The dances on display Thursday morning came for various cultures across North America.

“Culture is something that is very important in life. You can learn where you’re from with your culture, make sure people learn what Indigenous people went through in the past,” said St. Pierre.

by Michael Reeve

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Grade 5 students from across SD73 take part in district powwow

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