Spring 2016 Anishinabe Performance Circle Graduation 5-3-16

Joseph V. Sowmick - May 18, 2016

In an effort to provide bonus coverage, Team Observer was on location May 3 at the historic Broadway Theatre in downtown Mount Pleasant for the Spring 2016 Anishinabe Performance Circle Graduation.  ZCS Assistant Director Waabanoqua (Judy Pamp) said this was the second year Ziibiwing offered an adult and teen Anishinabe class together on Wednesdays.  The performance started with a traditional powwow grand entry with each dancer doing their introduction to the community in Anishinabemowin.   

The exhibition featured an Inter-Tribal, Canoe Song, Biinoojins Swing Song followed by a Traditional Men’s Song, Men’s Grass & Fancy, Hoop Dance, Women’s Jingle, Women’s Fancy and closed with a dramatic performance of an Eagle Dance. The Performance Circle was generously sponsored by the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe’s Housing Department, Tribal Council and Ziibiwing Center.  

Waabanoqua serves as the emcee and offered a “chi miigwetch” to the parents, grandparents and many other community members who have assisted with the Anishinabe Performance Circle.  “I would also like to thank the Saginaw Chippewa Tribal Council for their continued support along with the SCIT Housing, Ziibiwing Center and the Soaring Eagle Waterpark & Hotel Nbakade Restaurant for catering the graduation reception,” Waabanoqua said. “Your dedication to our culture, history, language and children helps our great nation remain strong!”