Curve Lake First Nation Pow Wow Grounds — Attraction in Ontario

I have attended many powows in the last 15 or so years. I almost always was with a friend and her family. We always camped out for the weekend and had an amazing time. I always felt welcomed. In recent years, lets say pre-pandemic I attended a powow with an autistic man in his 30's. I took him because he asked me if i would and I did not want to disappoint him as he had been let down many times. He is of Aztek decent and was born in Mexico. He could recite the name of every Aztek tribe that ever existed, however he does not know the customs of his people. I know some things about Ojibwe practices because of attending so many in the past. I attended the powow this year I am not a member of six nations, but have a great respect for the native people. I wanted to pitch a tent and was told no, however I managed to pitch them later in the day thanks to my son who showed up for the day. He is an adopted member of Scugog Island Wolf Clan I believe it is. The day progressed and my Autistic friend who comes from a meager background was addressed by an elder who told him he was making a mockery of his own people. He did not have good regalia and he could not dance properly. While his mother agreed he needs to learn more his only source of knowlege comes from the internet because that is all he has. He was told to buy some leather and make a proper Aztec shield, I spoke up and said you have to have money to buy leather, he was told to go to a second hand store and buy an old leather coat and make a shield with it, and I can assure you that would be a stretch also. His brother is also autistic and she does not work because she takes care of them. I am certain the woman was trying to guide him but did not realize the depth of his Autism. He wants to learn but has nobody to teach him and he can only get to powows if I bring him. I was hurt for this man because he was also told the internet does not give him true information. I also feel that this has just all around not been good for the way we were treated all around. If the powow theme was to be kind, I don't think the people got the message. I have had many great experiences at powows and I would like to continue to bring this man to them and not feel like because I am white and not indigenous that I am not welcome. I was asked what nation I am from by this woman, I was also asked if I was aware of all the indigenous children that have been found. I was not there when these things happened and I feel that my not being indigenous has sparked this feeling of unwelcoming. I could not imagine the loss ,of having families ripped apart, being a mother of 10. I truly want to see people united rather than divided. There were alot of non indigenous people in attendance who come to observe, learn and support the Powow. Holding grudges does not solve problems. My name is tracy, I do not have a google account so I am typing from...

What a positive and cultural experience! The Curve Lake people were so welcoming and kind and I felt emotional and full of gratitude that the community shared their drums snd voices and dancing with everyone and encouraged me to get involved.

The event was extremely well organized and coordinated with shuttle buses and large golf carts to get you from your car to the event and back - seamless.

There were so many vendors showcasing incredible talent. I especially loved all of the beaded earrings (a weakness of mine). I tried the Indian Tacos recommended by the emcee YUM!

The emcee was engaging and fun to listen to.

It was the first pow wow I ever attended and I will definitely be back at Curve Lakes next one.

Miigwetch to the entire community for sharing your culture and kindness and healing...

A vibrant celebration of Indigenous culture, tradition, and community. With powerful drumming, colorful regalia, and energetic dancing, the event brings people together in a respectful and joyful atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy traditional food, browse handmade crafts, and learn more about the rich heritage of the Anishinaabe people. A memorable and...