Powwow participants in Standoff on Sunday, July 17, 2022. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By Justin Goulet with files from Drew Stremick

Indigenous culture recognized at Kainai Powwow and Celebration in Standoff

Jul 18, 2022 | 8:35 AM

STANDOFF, AB – After a two-year hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Kainai Nation hosted its Powwow and Celebration in Standoff over the weekend.

The event took place Friday, July 15 through to Sunday, July 17, 2022 at Red Crow Park.

Attendees watch the ceremonies at the Kainai Powwow and Celebration on Sunday, July 17, 2022. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

It featured the powwow, traditional dances, a rodeo, stick-games, drumming, a parade, a golf tournament and many other family-friendly activities.

A drumming circle at the Kainai Powwow and Celebration in Standoff on Sunday, July 17, 2022. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

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Dancer Darrell Goodwill told LNN he has been dancing for over 50 years and said the traditional dances have a cultural significance, as well as physical benefits.

He said, “For my part of it, I went through a lot of different sicknesses and the dance part of it, it sure keeps me going and healthy.”

“It’s more of healing when you dance and then, everything that I went through, they say exercise is the best for your health, so that’s what we do. That’s the way I look at it anyway.”

The Kainai Powwow and Celebration took place at Red Crow Park in Standoff Friday, July 15 through to Sunday, July 17, 2022. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

Goodwill added that the outfit he sported was made by his sister.

“It represents your family. The more bead work you have on, it shows how much your family looks after you and helps you out,” he remarked.

Goodwill said it brings him joy seeing younger generations embrace powwows.

He commented, “That’s the best thing to see. We’re not gonna lose that part of the culture and all that because there is so many of them willing to dance. It’s really good.”

More information is available at the Blood Tribe website.

–With files from Drew Stremick