Native Awareness Week

By David Kenney

Celebrating a 30 year tradition, the First Nations Students’ Association is holding Native Awareness Week in MacEwan Students Centre from Feb. 14-18.


The event will feature a number of activities open to all students, including a movie and bingo night, a gala featuring local native artists, and a pow wow. The FNSA is hoping that each of these events will help raise awareness on campus.


“It’s been hard,” said Kuni Albert, Chief of the FNSA. “Every year has been a success and I’m really happy and excited.”


Native Awareness Week is starting off with a Pipe Ceremony at 10 a.m. on Monday and each day there will be numerous events open and free to all students. Locations for these events include the Red Lodge, MSC, and the Council Chambers.


One of the highlights for the week will be the pow wow on Friday.


“Last year, the pow wow went on for over five hours,” said Albert. “The evening starts with a potluck dinner and then each age group gets its own turn to dance.


“It will be extra special this year because there are four different drum groups coming.”


The Students’ Union is also helping out with NAW and SU President Bryan West will speak during the week.


For more information about Native Awareness Week, please contact the Native Center at 220-6687.