The sound of the drum—a steady, reverent heartbeat—filled the Rhineland Pioneer Centre in Altona on May 3, as the Joe Creek Singers and Dancers from Roseau River Anishinabe First Nation led a powerful powwow demonstration.
Hosted by Altona’s Steps Toward Reconciliation group, the event drew a full house of community members eager to learn, connect, and honour Indigenous culture.
The event featured a vibrant display of traditional singing, drumming, and dance, with men and boys performing the energetic chicken and traditional dances, and women and girls showcasing the jingle, fancy, and traditional dances. A highlight of the day was a circle dance that invited all attendees—young and old, Indigenous and non-Indigenous—to join hands and share in a moment of unity. The gathering ended with a traditional lunch, shared by all.
Jaime Friesen-Pankratz, a member of the organizing group, said the intent was to offer an accessible and welcoming introduction to powwow culture.
“We wanted to bring in a really diverse group of folks, people from all backgrounds and generations, for a time of listening and learning,” she said. “Sometimes newcomers or settler Canadians don’t realize they’re welcome at powwows. This was a way to say—yes, you are. Come, be a part of it.”
Powwows, Friesen-Pankratz noted, are not just for Indigenous communities. They are open, inclusive celebrations of life, culture, and spirituality.
“This is kind of a kick-off to powwow season in Manitoba. It’s an invitation to attend these events and build relationships.”
Jonathan Atkinson, director of the Joe Creek Singers and Dancers, was instrumental in organizing the demonstration.
“It was important to bring the dancers, the elders, and leadership from Roseau River to share this part of our culture,” he said. “Our drum is the heartbeat of our nation. And our youth dancers—they are our future. Some of our dancers today are residential school survivors. There’s deep meaning in everything we bring.”
Bill Atkinson, emcee for the event, guided the audience through each dance style and shared the history of the Joe Creek Singers.
“Our drum is one of the oldest in Manitoba, and it carries the spirit and legacy of our late uncle Leonard Nelson, who founded the group. He asked us to carry on the name and teachings in a good way. That’s what we’re doing here.”
Atkinson spoke of the healing that happens through gatherings like this.
“These events allow us to show our way of life, and to build familiarity. We travel across Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Ontario, even into the U.S. It’s about connection, healing, and keeping traditions alive.”
Among the audience were local dignitaries, government officials, and RCMP members, who offered words of welcome, handshakes, and gifts. Organizers emphasized that anyone is welcome to join the Steps Toward Reconciliation group and participate in future events.
For many in attendance, it was their first experience witnessing a powwow. The day was filled with emotion, education, and shared humanity. Elders shared stories of hardship and resilience, from the trauma of residential schools to the struggle to express love and connection across generations.
“Even saying good morning, or I love you, was hard for some survivors,” said Atkinson. “But those barriers are starting to come down. That’s reconciliation.”
As powwow season begins, Manitobans are invited to attend upcoming events, including the annual celebration at Roseau River First Nation on June 20–21.
“Come, watch, take pictures,” urged Atkinson. “That’s what powwows are for—sharing our culture, making connections, and walking together.”
