Singers from the Blackfoot Confederacy signaled the Grand Entry of the delegation for the 2019 Westmount Elementary School Powwow on Thursday June 6 in Strathmore.

Students crowded the gym as they learned about First Nations culture, music, history and regalia during the annual event. The powwow was lead by master of ceremonies Spike Eagle Speaker.

There were opening prayers and remarks and the singing of O’Canada in Blackfoot Language by Westmount Elementary School's Chief Kaylynn Black Horse.

Siksika Nation councillor Ruben Breaker thanked Golden Hills School Division, Westmount School, school liaisons, parents and the community.

“At times like these it’s important that we learn about each other,” he said.

“We have to learn to live together and it’s at events like these that we learn about each others cultures and we learn to respect one another,” he said.

“Talk and listen to as many elders as you can,” said Andee Winnipeg Miss Westmount School,.at the beginning of the powwow as she spoke to other students at the school about their future.

Special guests included members of Siksika Nation Chief and Council, Golden Hills School Division, Westmount Student Chief and Council, Strathmore Chief and Council, and Siksika Board of Education.