Formal Invitation to Participate in the South Island Powwow on September 30th, 2025
ʔay’ skʷečəl, Good Day:
On behalf of Songhees Nation Council and the South Island Powwow Organizing Committee, we extend a warm and respectful invitation to your Nation’s Leadership, Elders, and Youth to attend and participate in the fourth annual South Island Powwow, taking place on September 30, 2025, on our lək`”agan homelands at Royal Athletic Park in Victoria. The hours of the event are as follows: gates open at 10:00 am, grand entry at noon, with the event ending at 8:00 pm.
Since 2022, the Songhees Nation has marked this day in a meaningful way to honour Residential and Day School Survivors, those affected by the Sixties Scoop, and the children who never returned home. Out of this commitment, the South Island Powwow was born. Over the past three years, we have welcomed tens of thousands of Indigenous Peoples and allies to join us in remembrance, healing, and celebration.
As we prepare for this year’s event, we are focusing on deepening Coast Salish representation and participation. It would be a great honour to welcome a delegation from your Nation to attend as our guests. We would also be pleased to include your delegation in the Grand Entry.
To ensure smooth coordination and proper recognition of all participants, we kindly request confirmation of your Nation’s interest in attending and/or participating in the Grand Entry by September 24th, 2025. Please contact Samantha Dean at sipowwow@songheesnation.com with your response or any inquiries.
Həyšxʷq̓ə,
Ron Sam Chief, Songhees Nation