College wrapped in shared culture

Okanagan College's 10th annual Youth Exhibition Powwow today will bring hundreds of dancers to the Kelowna campus for a celebration of Indigenous culture.

Elder Richard Jackson Jr. of the Lower Nicola Indian Band and Noel Ferguson of the Canoe Creek First Nation and Ki-LowNa Friendship Society will reprise their roles as master of ceremony and arena director, roles they’ve held for every one of the college powwows.

In acknowledgement of their long-time involvement, college officials will honour Jackson and Ferguson during a special blanket ceremony this morning.

Jackson and Ferguson will be wrapped in traditional Pendleton blankets as a physical and spiritual symbol of respect.

Shortly after Jackson and Ferguson are wrapped, the duo will present the college with an Eagle Staff as a symbol of respect and to recognize the college’s continued efforts to embrace Aboriginal culture and values and support the educational journey of Aboriginal learners.

The event will include a lunch of native tacos – prepared and served by the college’s culinary arts students – and vendors selling jewelry, artwork, soaps, moccasins, jams, lotions and more.

Additionally, there will be a 50/50 and raffle draw available with the proceeds going to financial awards for Indigenous students at OC.

Last year, about 1,000 students, faculty and staff along with members of the community attended. This year, more than 600 students from various private band and public schools have been invited to attend the exhibition.

The festivities run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Kelowna campus courtyard. Attendance is free and open to the public.