Dialogues for Promoting Indigenous Spirituality and Culture
A Celebration Until the End
The Indigenous residents of J. B. Wood Continuing Care Centre in Alberta have spent much of their lives forcibly disconnected from their cultural traditions.
However, changing attitudes over the last few decades have empowered some to regain pride in their heritage and cultivate community connections. Now as they near the end of their journeys, it’s more important than ever that they have opportunities to participate in meaningful cultural gatherings.
That is why staff at J.B. Wood have partnered with the High Prairie Native Friendship Centre to host the Honouring Our Elders Pow Wow; a powerful cultural gathering that celebrates song, dance, drumming, regalia, storytelling, and intergenerational connection. For the past three years, this one-day event has brought together families, staff, and community members to create a welcoming space where Indigenous culture and spirituality can be celebrated within the care home. Pow wows provide culturally affirming experiences that honour identity, promote belonging, and strengthen spiritual and emotional well-being, while reducing the isolation that often accompanies older individuals in long-term care settings.
The pow wow has become one of the most important events at J.B. Wood and is requested annually by its residents. The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) is providing a contribution to ensure the gathering can continue to grow each year. The Honouring Our Elders Pow Wow brings the entire community together, from J.B. Wood who provide staffing, High Prairie Native Friendship Centre responsible for refreshments, Big Lakes County donating tents, to individual volunteers. The gathering is an example of what can be achieved when Indigenous and non-Indigenous Peoples come together for a shared purpose.
Archdiocese of Grouard-McLennan
