FORT QU’APPELLE, Sask. — For the last 39 years, Fort Qu’Appelle has welcomed the masses to the Treaty Four Gathering. The event, a celebration of Indigenous culture that draws approximately 20,000 First Nations and non-First Nations attendees, according to the Office of the Treaty Commissioner.
Spanning over 195,000 square kilometres across three provinces, Treaty Four territory forms the backdrop for this significant event, held annually during the second week of September in Fort Qu’Appelle. The gathering takes place on the week of Sept. 15, marking the anniversary of the signing of Treaty Four.
The event is community-run. People like Nicholas Ironchild play several key roles in the event. Ironchild is a Treaty Four Powwow helper and staff member at White Raven Healing Centre.
Ironchild emphasizes the communal spirit of the event. “What we take, we give,” Ironchild said. “It’s really important to just enjoy your time with one another. Spending time, whether you’re a newcomer or not, there are always elders around, who are eager to share our history.”
Ironchild noted that engaging with elders often involves traditional practices, such as offering tobacco products as a gesture of respect before conversations. “Just watch, be observant,” he advised. “Then you know, if you have a question, go and find someone who might know what you’re asking for or trying to learn. Traditionally, you know, maybe give them a smoke for their time,” said Ironchild.
During the week-long gathering, many events and activities take place. There is a deliberate purpose for everything that occurs at the gathering. Ironchild states, “Each song the drummers play, each song the singers sing, has a purpose. There is meaning in everything, for each dancer as well.”
The gathering promotes unity across diverse backgrounds. All people are welcome to attend the gathering, and it is encouraged to bring a learning mentality to the event. “You know, whether we’re Indigenous or not, Indigenous people of this line, we’re all treaty people as far as I was told by our elders,” said Ironchild.
When speaking to patrons of the event, I interviewed Makalya Hamilton, a University of Regina student and recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal. “To me, a powwow means opportunity. An opportunity to heal, learn and experience firsthand what indigenous culture is all about. People need to learn what treaty people are and how we can further our reconciliation efforts,” she said.
(Makayla Hamilton pictured in the middle receiving her King Charles III coronation medal)
Hamilton, who is of Metis descent, was recognized for her work with the National Cadet Advisory Council for Truth and Reconciliation efforts, as well as building support systems for Indigenous cadets. Hamilton added, “We as treaty people need to understand that reconciliation is an ongoing form of healing. Elders and old ones have the key that allows us to connect the past to the present.”
Many people have not had the opportunity to attend this event, and may be wondering what the festivities entail. Ironchild says there is a lot to do at the gatherings.
For those new to the gathering, Ironchild highlighted the immersive experience. “There’s a lot of stuff going on. Lots of music, lots of dancing to watch. There are always things to do and people to talk to. I think you just have to be mindful of the environment that you’re in, and embrace it,” Ironchild said.
Ironchild jokingly ended by saying, “If you want to have a good time, come early and get a good parking spot!”
