“I was so happy to have the opportunity to do that,” shared Grand Chief Garrison Settee in reference to his first time entering the pow wow circle as a traditional dancer.
“I grew up with Pentecostal teachings and I didn’t grow up in a traditional family. Now I am embracing my identity while holding onto the Pentcostal values and teachings as well as embracing my identity as a Muskego Ininiw. There is a balance I have found.
I’m thankful to the people who made this possible. I recognize Lisa Meeches, Lee and Sherry Gott, Wab Kinew, Dennis Meeches, Mary Ann Patrick, Max Linklater and countless others who supported me on this humbling journey.”
~Grand Chief Settee is grateful for the opportunity to be welcomed into the pow wow circle at Manito Ahbee Festival on May 21, 2022. He looks forward to dancing in future pow wow and thanks everyone who shared their talents and energy at the Manito Ahbee Festival in Treaty One territory.
Ekosi, masi cho, and meegwetch to Al Foster at the Southern Chiefs’ Organization for taking the photos included in this post.
