Powwow 101:
What it is, its importance to Indigenous People, stories of each style and teachings of how to practice the dances with respect and integrity. The session will begin with a smudge ceremony to cleanse the space and get started in a good way. Then we will move on to an aerobic-type warm up and learn some basic footwork appropriate for all genders.
Please wear clothes you can move in.

Sissy Thiessen is a Treaty 6 Nakota Sioux, Cree & German Indigenous cultural facilitator, Powwow dancer, crafter/beader, spoken word poet and creative writer from Edmonton, Alberta. She studied Communications & Journalism at Mount Royal University and has won various awards in the areas of community enrichment, cultural involvement and journalism. For the past 5 years, she has been living her passion of educating Albertans of all ages on Indigenous history, issues & culture through dance, crafting, play and the written word. As a spoken word poet, Sissy also works to bring awareness to social issues around body image, mental health, race and self identity.