stɑl ̓əw̓ Arts & Cultural Society is an Indigenous women-led not-for-profit organization located on the unceded territory of the Kwantlen First Nation. The society is dedicated to advocating for and empowering Indigenous artists living in Coast Salish territories to share their gifts. They honour and respect their ancestors while working to revitalize traditional practices through mentorship and community building.
About the Event:
The society welcomes everyone to its 3rd annual Pow-Wow, a vibrant, three-day community-centred event celebrating Indigenous culture, traditions, music, regalia, and art. This event is a time to celebrate and preserve their rich heritage and traditional ways. Attendees are invited to join and experience the important role tradition plays in defining Indigenous culture.
United Way BC's Commitment to Supporting Indigenous Communities:
Volunteering and participating in Indigenous cultural events aligns with United Way BC’s commitment to respecting and supporting Indigenous communities’ right to self-determination and promoting cultural awareness. Attending these events enhances staff’s understanding of Indigenous cultures, traditions, and histories, helping to build meaningful connections with Indigenous communities. This engagement supports the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, promoting a more inclusive and respectful future. Moreover, it encourages inclusivity within UWBC and provides staff with personal growth opportunities.
Volunteer Opportunities:
Volunteer shifts are 4+ hours long and available in the morning, afternoon, and evening. The exact times for each shift will be provided closer to the event date. Please include a note indicating your preferred shift when responding to this opportunity.
Duties will be assigned to volunteers at registration and may include any of the following tasks:
- Greeters: Welcome elders and attendees and help create a warm and welcoming environment. Assist elders and provide general venue information to attendees.
- Support to the MC, Dancers, and Drummers: Assist with coordination and logistics as requested.
- Dance Arena Setup: Help set up and maintain the dance arena.
- Vendor Assistance: Assist vendors with booth setup.
- General Event Setup and Cleanup: Ensure the event area is set up before and cleaned up after the event.
Important Information:
- Food: Please note that no meals or meal vouchers will be provided. Water is available at the volunteer registration desk.
- Age Requirement: Volunteers must be 16 years or older.
- Personal Items: There is no place to store personal items, so volunteers should only bring what they can carry. Event staff will not be held responsible for missing personal items.
Pow-Wow Etiquette:
Here are some general guidelines and etiquette to ensure a respectful and smooth-running event:
- Be on time and ready to help: Arrive early and check in at the volunteer registration table. At registration, you will receive a volunteer t-shirt—please use it.
- Respect the arena: It has been blessed and is considered a sacred space. Unless asked, please do not cross it unnecessarily. Use designated entrances and exits.
- Listen to the Master of Ceremonies (MC): Follow instructions on when to take photos and when to dance.
- Show respect during the Grand Entry and special songs: Stand up and remove hats if requested.
- Respect regalia: Do not touch or handle dancers' regalia without permission. These items are often handmade and hold significant cultural value. Please also do not take photos of dancers in regalia without first asking permission.
- Do not take photos during special songs: Unless the MC gives permission.
- Respect reserved seats: Do not remove blankets on seats without permission.
- Assist Elders: Help Elders find seats or bring them water.
Volunteer Safety Tips:
- Stay hydrated: Bring a water bottle and drink plenty of water throughout your shift
- Wear comfortable shoes: You may be walking or standing for extended periods of time so wear supportive footwear.
- Take breaks: If you feel tired, please take short breaks to rest and recharge
- Lift safely: When lifting objects, bend your knees and keep your back straight to avoid injury. Do not lift anything too heavy without help.
- Ask for help: If you are unsure about cultural etiquette or a task or you simply need assistance, please ask event staff for help.
