At the recent powwow in Panmure Island, P.E.I., 16-year-old Carly Simon paid tribute to her late cousin, John Gerard Doucette, by performing a jingle dress dance with his graduation photo attached to her belt. Carly expressed her deep love for him and her desire to honor his memory through her dance.

Carly’s mother, Jenna Doucette, mentioned that Carly often includes John in her activities as a way to cope with her grief. The jingle dance, considered a healing prayer, holds special significance for Carly as each metal cone on her dress symbolizes a unique prayer that she offers for others every day and night.

Traveling from Eskasoni First Nation in Nova Scotia, Carly and her family attended the annual Panmure Island powwow. Jenna Doucette highlighted the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere of the event, which she believed would be beneficial for Carly, especially considering her neurodivergence.

The 32nd edition of the Panmure Island powwow aimed to attract more attendees this year, with a target of reaching one thousand people, as noted by Bradley Cooper, a political adviser with P.E.I.’s native council. Cooper emphasized the importance of reclaiming this cultural celebration, which was historically suppressed under the Indian Act until its repeal in 1951.

Drummer George Snache shared his perspective on the powwow as a means to honor the deceased and pass down Mi’kmaw culture and identity through generations. Snache, who has been drumming since childhood, highlighted the significance of certain songs sung at the powwow, which can convey mourning or celebration based on the guidance received through traditional practices.