Exploring Grand River’s Champion of Champions Powwow

This past weekend, I had the incredible experience of watching and interacting with Grand River’s Champion of Champions Powwow, an Aboriginal Multicultural event showcasing Native Canadian and American pride and heritage through song, dance, and art. This event has been around for over 40 years, attracting guests and artists nationally and internationally.

Being my first powwow, I had no expectations and was amazed by the rhythmic dancing, the colourful and elaborate regalia, and the cultural connections to the land.  

One of my learnings was how Aboriginal drumming mimics a mother’s heartbeat to infants and young children, arousing feelings of their time in their mother’s womb, beating the same beat. It was a touching moment – listening to the drum roll call and feeling its reverberation while accompanied by my own mother. Then we watched the Tiny Tot dancers take the field to express themselves. 

As the day continued, various dances (traditional, grass, fancy, jingle) were performed by all ages and accompanied by competing singers and drummers. I was mesmerized by the women’s Fancy Shawl dance – a dance characterizing a butterfly emerging from a cocoon. Girls were light on their feet, spinning, kicking, and twirling around the field while their shawls swayed with the motions. Not only was it incredible to watch, but it was also an excellent photography opportunity! 

To be able to adorn and dance in such regalia when the temperature is over 26°C with little to no breeze or cloud coverage is highly commendable. One of the ways we cooled down was by enjoying strawberry juice, a traditional drink in Six Nations culture. With strawberries being my favourite fruit, I was thrilled to learn they had a deeper significance than quenching my thirst. Strawberries are the healing fruit, symbolizing the heart and promoting cardiovascular health. Strawberry juice is particularly good for improving blood sugar levels and reducing inflammation, plus it's delicious! 

I’m incredibly thankful to the Six Nations of the Grand River for this cultural and historical experience. After watching the dances, talking with vendors and friends, and reflecting through my photographs, I have a better appreciation for the tranquillity, natural beauty, and craftsmanship in Canada’s Indigenous culture. I hope this gallery interests you in learning more.