Submitted Photo Bailey Norris-Pott, left, and her friend, Geneva Tait, attend the MSU Powwow Saturday, where Norris-Pott was able to further connect with her Cree culture.

The Minot State University Powwow held in the MSU Dome on Friday and Saturday enabled first-time attendee Bailey Norris-Pott to connect with the Indigenous culture of her ancestors.

“I am a Cree Indigenous woman and much of what I have been able to learn about my culture has been through my own searching as an adult,” Norris-Pott said. “My dad is Cree, and unfortunately, I didn’t learn much about my culture from him.”

Over the years Norris-Pott has reconnected with her culture in small ways.

“I have learned bits and pieces, like traditional beading, smudging and stories. I have found that as I have been in university, I have had so many more opportunities to learn about my heritage,” she said.

The powwow was a two-day celebration of Indigenous culture, with events such as cultural teaching, food booths and dances.

“The powwow was an incredible experience. I had the opportunity to speak with other indigenous people, connect with local Native American artists and, of course, see the beautiful traditional dances in person for the first time,” Norris-Pott said. “I truly believe that this was a great step in reconnecting to my culture. I think that if childhood me could see how proud I am of my culture, she would be in awe. I am so grateful for this experience.”