FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Every Child Matters Traditional Powwow at Scotiabank Saddledome
Monday, Sept 26, 2022
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Calgary (Mohkinstsis), AB – Friday, September 30th, 2022, at 6:00PM, Siksika Health Services and the Calgary Hitmen will come together in partnership once again, this time to host the Every Child Matters Traditional Powwow in the Scotiabank Saddledome. The rare event will mark the September 30th National Day for Truth & Reconciliation & Orange Shirt Day. The powwow will open with a special greeting from the founder of Orange Shirt Day, Phyllis Webstad. The evening of dancing will include two feature dances consisting of an Orange Regalia Youth Dance (ages 7-12) and a special Honor Song for all residential school survivors in attendance.
WHO: Dr. Tyler White, CEO, Siksika Health Services; Siksika Nation representatives; Calgary Hitmen representatives; other dignitaries & event sponsors
WHERE: Scotiabank Saddledome
WHEN: Doors open @ 6:00pm; event start @ 7:00pm – 10:00pm on Friday September 30th
This event could not be possible without Siksika Health Services’ amazing partners and sponsors: the First Nations Health Consortium, Challenge Industries, Miller Thompson LLP, Okaki, Siksika Nation Treasury, The Blackfoot Confederacy, Siksika Family Services, College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta, Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary, LDI Printing Solutions, and Classroom Champions.
The Every Child Matters name is part of a much larger movement founded by Phyllis Webstad. It’s a recognition and commitment to action to ensure that all children know their importance, and to honour those who attended Residential Schools in Canada, their families, and communities.
Please note that this is a cultural event: when photographing or filming a powwow, it’s important to be respectful and not take photos or film during certain moments – please see additional guidance below. Media are asked to confirm attendance.
Photography and/or Videography of the Powwow:
- There will be no stock photography at this event.
- When you’re at a powwow, you’re at a cultural event. As such there may be some customs and traditions that are unfamiliar to you or others who are present, yet they are highly significant. Please show respect throughout, and feel free to ask questions about what’s appropriate and what’s not.
- While you may technically be in public, it’s considered impolite to take photos without first asking permission. If you’re told no, please respect that.
- When photographing a powwow, it is important to be respectful and not take photos during prayers, flag songs or other ceremonies or when the MC has forbid photos.
- Many dancers have worked for hours to create their beautiful beadwork and it is something personally meaningful to them. Some don’t like to have this beadwork photographed, as it may allow someone else to copy the design.
-30-
For information contact:
Cassandra Vilgrain
Communications Coordinator
(403) 921 7511
Ryan Running Rabbit
Communications, Siksika Health Services
(403) 361 0584
