Thousands gather at U of S for graduation powwow

A special graduation ceremonyat the University of Saskatchewan on Wednesday featured notcaps and gowns but drums, singing and dancing.

The annual U of S graduation powwow brings together hundreds of graduating university and high school students from more than two dozen schools. Joining with them in celebrationis thousands of other Indigenous students of all ages from across the province.

"You know this is a very large, very public gathering and it's a real demonstration of the university's commitment to Indigenous engagement and student success," said Graeme Joseph with the Aboriginal Students' Centre at the U of S.

Finding community

Milo Cameron, who is graduating from the U of S with a degree in drama, came to the university from a small high school and recalled being overwhelmed when he arrived in Saskatoon. That is,until he started meeting other Indigenous students and began to feel a sense of community.

Cameron said this powwow sends a clear message to younger students who are in attendance: "Yes, you can persevere and you can achieve your dreams here at the U of S."

His message to freshman Indigenous students thisfall is simple:Find your community, then stay focused.

"Stay true to yourself. You know what your dream is," he said.