Aboriginal students from GBC brought their heritage to the Waterfront on Mar. 29 with onlookers from inside and outside of their communities. Photo: Tina Todaro/The Dialog

The Pow Wow celebrated the importance of culture by fostering togetherness at George Brown College (GBC). Showcasing the meaning of their culture, aboriginal students brought their heritage to the Waterfront campus on March 29. 

“A Pow Wow is how we get together as a community,” said Coty Zachariah, 26. “Over the years it’s become a good way to showcase our culture.”

Amazing responses from students from other schools and people in the Toronto community attracted over 1000 guests to this year’s Four Sacred Colours Pow Wow, put on by the Sahkitcheway Aboriginal Student Association of GBC.

“The George Brown College Four Sacred Colours Pow Wow always has been wonderful and I had the chance this year to be a vital volunteer,” said Samantha Brown, GBC student and incoming aboriginal representative. “I can’t describe the feeling it brings me, to be able to help with such a positive experience.”

The event effortlessly showcased a way of life while driving out past misconceptions, for example the inappropriate portrayals of aboriginal people in media.

According to Media Smarts, “primitive, violent and devious, or passive and submissive,” are some of the common portrayals of Aboriginal People in movies, TV programs, and literature ranging from books to comic strips.

This year’s event, with a bigger turnout than the previous year, demonstrated the strength and passion among students, children, adults and other attendees.

Beats from the drums, also known as ‘grandfathers’, created a vibrant atmosphere for guests, and an environment that encouraged dancing, singing, shopping, and getting in touch with a culture that may not have been their own.

“This year, we had so much support from GBC students and from the aboriginal community,” said Brown. “I know next year it will be even bigger and better.”

Adding to Brown’s comment, Zachariah mentions that although the Waterfront campus was home to this year’s Pow Wow, a bigger space may be necessary next year.

Vibrant colours, dances, and songs allowed the crowd to engage with each other, while displaying the true meaning of aboriginal cultures.