As the drums began to echo outside Sakewew High School for its 25th anniversary powwow, three Grade 12 students sat together with their teacher, getting ready to step into the circle.
Abbiegale Morin, Teqkoi Thomas and Morningdawn Watchmaker were preparing for their dances, dressed from head to toe in regalia that once belonged to their teacher, Celeste Tootoosis.
Tootoosis had encouraged all three students to take part in the celebration, and as she carefully braided Morin’s hair, the significance of the moment began to sink in.
“Ms. Tootoosis has inspired me,” said Morin. “I’m so happy that she was able to give us these outfits because I can’t afford one right now and she so generously gave me one to wear for this powwow. I’m so happy for that and I feel so inspired to dance for her.”
For Thomas and Watchmaker, the encouragement from their teacher also helped bring them back to a powwow.
“She helped me, motivated me to dance,” said Thomas. “I am very thankful.”
“She motivated all of us to dance,” Watchmaker added enthusiastically.
While each student had a different relationship with dancing growing up, the three found a shared connection through their school and the opportunity to celebrate together.
Celeste Tootoosis during the Sakewew High School powwow. (Image Credit: Battlefords Agency Tribal Chiefs Inc./ Facebook)
Morin said she has always enjoyed powwows and was especially excited to see one taking place right outside her school.
“I remember last time I went to a powwow at Sakewew and it was amazing too,” she said. “I just like powwows all the time and it’s so close to our school too and I am so excited.”
As the final braid was finished and the girls prepared to join the celebration, Tootoosis watched proudly.
“I’m really happy that they wanted to join in. My outfits won’t just sit there. They’re going to be useful today,” she said with a smile. “We’re going to have fun, lots of fun today!”
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BATC CDC presents Sakewew High School with an $18,100 cheque. (Image Credit: Battlefords Agency Tribal Chiefs Inc./ Facebook)
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Alyssa.rudolph@pattisonmedia.com
