At the 20th anniversary of Winnipeg’s Manito Ahbee Festival, one of North America’s largest powwows, White’s family is honouring her legacy. Jocelyn White, Maggie’s granddaughter, expressed pride in paying tribute to her kokum at this major event. The family is hosting a jingle dress special called “Honouring the Shiibaashka’igan,” meaning jingle dress in Anishinaabemowin.
Maggie White’s story begins with a childhood illness and a vision from her grandfather of a dress with metal cones that helped heal her when she danced. Attending Manito Ahbee has been a longstanding family tradition, with Jocelyn recalling her pride in hearing the music and seeing relatives perform.
Manito Ahbee was founded 20 years ago by Indigenous leaders including current executive director Lisa Meeches to showcase First Nations, Métis, and Inuit cultures in an inclusive setting. Derek Hart, involved since the beginning, recalls early uncertainties but celebrates the festival’s successful growth.
The event has evolved, now held on the May long weekend at Red River Exhibition Park, featuring diverse programming such as a teepee-raising contest, fashion shows, youth speeches, and a marketplace. The annual crowning of Miss Manito Ahbee honors missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls and promotes leadership.
Grace Redhead, powwow manager and former Miss Manito Ahbee ambassador, leads the coordination of the powwow, which attracts hundreds of dancers. The festival also embraces newcomers and held a citizenship ceremony for the first time this year.
As Manito Ahbee enters its next two decades, organizers like Hart and Redhead are optimistic about passing the torch to the next generation dedicated to celebrating Indigenous culture and traditions.
Source: Swifteradio.com
