Mino Bimaadiziwin: A Visitor’s Guide to Caldwell First Nation’s Pow Wow
Hey, it’s your local guide and adventure buddy, Nina. Before we dive into this adventure, I want to begin by acknowledging that the land and waters I get explore and share here in Windsor and Essex County sits on the Three Fires Confederacy of First Nations – Ojibwe (Oh-jib-way), Odawa (Oh-dah-wah), and Potawatomi (Paw-taw-watt-oh-me), and the ancestral home of the Caldwell First Nation. I also recognize the many other indigenous nations who continue to call this land home, and I give thanks to Mother Earth for sustaining us.
If you’ve ever wanted to step into a celebration filled with vibrant culture, tradition, and community, this is your sign to attend the Caldwell First Nation’s Competitive Pow Wow. Known as the “Zaaga’iganniniwag” in Ojibwe, translating to the “People of the Lake”, Caldwell First Nation is a proud Anishinaabe community that hosted their very first Competitive Pow Wow on its new reserve in Leamington, Ontario. From the rhythmic dances to the stories behind them, this guide helps you experience the event in a way that’s both fun and respectful – so you can celebrate alongside the community and carry those memories with you long after.
WHAT IS MINO BIMAADIZIWIN?
MINO BIMAADIZIWIN (mih-no bih-mah-dih-zih-win) is an Ojibwe term that translates to “living the good life” or “a good life”. It’s a holistic way of living that guides individuals toward balance and harmony.
A CELEBRATION ROOTED IN HISTORY
Did you know that people have been living around Point Pelee for more than 1,000 years? This area and Pelee Island were crucial places to hunt, fish, and live. A Pow Wow is a celebration of people coming together; nations travelled across North America to share cross-cultural experiences through art and movement. This allows people the opportunity to celebrate resilience, unity, and identity in a safe, respectful environment.
Caldwell First Nation’s first annual Competitive Pow Wow is a 2-day event which showcases indigenous music, dance, regalia, food and crafts; a beautiful expression of their identity. It’s located on their new reserve on Mersea Road, Leamington. The creative logo design for Caldwell First Nation was created by Naomi Peters, a Potawatomi/Chippewa (Ojibwe) member of the Caldwell First Nation.
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THE JOURNEY TO THE POW WOW: EDUCATIONAL SHUTTLE EXPERIENCE
I had the incredible opportunity to attend an educational shuttle experience hosted by Jim, who is a member of the Caldwell First Nation. This initiative was formed by the Caldwell First Nation, the Windsor Port Authority, and Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island to provide a complimentary round-trip tour on a Transit Windsor bus, along the shoreline of Windsor and Essex County. It is a requirement to register in advance on the official event website to secure your spot. As you arrive at the pick-up location of Destination Ontario (corner of Park and Goyeau), you’re greeted and guided onto the bus. It was an interactive experience as they provide you with a headset to listen to Jim’s experiences growing up – from hiding his Indian status at a young age to embracing his identity. Adding to his incredible storytelling, he passes artifacts such as a ceremonial pipe and sacred medicines to everyone on the tour. I learned that cedar, sage, tobacco, and sweet grass are sacred medicines used for many purposes not limited to ceremonies, healing practices, and prayers. He then further highlights many indigenous sites such as Cedar Creek, Boblo Island, The Livingston Channel, and many more.
Windsor Essex has a rich cultural heritage that you see every single day that you may not know about. For example, The Tecumseh and Brock Monument, located at a roundabout in Sandwich Towne, has historical significance to indigenous culture. The sculpture was created to commemorate when General Brock and Chief Tecumseh joined in unison to form an alliance during the War of 1812. During the excavation phase around the area, there were many artifacts (i.e., arrowheads, pottery) that were discovered. This tour is one of the most interesting tours I have ever experienced, and I highly suggest you try it next year – I left the tour feeling empowered and knowledgeable about what I can do to support our indigenous community. I’d like to thank Jim for taking the time to share his experience, teaching us about indigenous culture throughout Windsor Essex, and providing insightful answers to many questions we all had throughout the tour.
ARRIVING AT THE POW WOW
This shuttle drops you off just minutes from the Pow Wow, and from the moment you arrive, you feel welcomed. Whether you hop on a golf cart driven by a volunteer or enjoy the short walk in, you’re immediately surrounded by the energy of local artisans, vendors, and community spirit. From colourful artwork to dreamcatchers, it’s difficult not to spend any money. I purchased a T-shirt from Antler River Trading Co (@antlerrivertradingco) and Caldwell First Nation as a souvenir. You also won’t regret purchasing from Culture Shock Bead Co. for their crystals! Another fan favourite is visiting the Parks Canada booth, where they provided information, fun engagement activities (i.e., temporary airbrush tattoos with stencils), and unique items with Ojibwe meanings alongside it.
For example:
– Red Tailed Hawk Meskwananiisi (mess-kwah-nah-nee-see)
– Turtle Miskwaadesi (miss-kwah-deh-si)
– Turkey Skull Mizise Nishtigwaanigegan (me-zee-sen-nish-tig-wah-nee-geh-gun)
– Red Headed Woodpecker Baapaase (bah-pah-seh)
– Cooking Pot Jiibaakwewakik (jee-bah-kweh-wah-kick)
THE HEART OF THE POW WOW
As you continue to explore, you’ll hear a deep, steady rhythm that pulls you into the arena, where you’ll find dancers of all ages showcasing tradition through movement and regalia. Here, you’ll see a group of men sitting in a circle around a large bass drum, creating rhythmic patterns that make you want to dance. You’ll also find bleachers to sit and enjoy – however, I highly recommend bringing your own lawn chair or blanket as the seats get filled up quickly!
A competitive Pow Wow features dancing and singing contests of all age groups (i.e., men, women, teens, children) and styles (i.e., traditional, fancy, jingle, grass). These performances are judged and scored by cultural leaders and previous dance champions – individuals with the highest score receive a cash prize. I was speechless because I was fascinated by everyone’s beautiful regalia. Each outfit tells a story through its beadwork, colours and materials, unique and sacred to the dancer who wears it. One of my favourite parts of the Pow Wow is the Intertribal Dances, where everyone is invited into the circle. The host will announce an invitation to enter the arena circle to dance with attendees and participants. Even with zero rhythm, I was welcomed with smiles and taught a few steps – pure joy to share in that moment. This allows everyone to participate and experience the joy of the celebration and be a part of the community.
HOW TO SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES
– Attend and support annual Pow Wow
– Support authentic Indigenous businesses
– Learn about Indigenous culture and history
– Donate to Indigenous organizations
Caldwell First Nation
14 Orange St., Leamington
Caldwell First Nation Reserve
Mersea Road 1, Leamington
Caldwell First Nation Gas & Variety | @caldwell_gasbar
1032 Mersea Road 1, Leamington
Caldwell First Nation Marina | @caldwellfirstnationmarina
592 Bevel Line Road, Leamington
Culture Shock Bead Co | @cultureshockbeadco
238 Erie St. W., Windsor
Native Wonders Gifts & Gallery | @nativewondersgg
1239 Ottawa St., Windsor
TIPS TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR EXPERIENCE
– Bring your own lawn chair or blanket for comfort
– Refillable water bottle to stay hydrated
– Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for UV ray protection
– Always ask for consent as certain ceremonies or dances may not allow photography/videography
– Don’t be afraid to ask questions
FINAL THOUGHTS FROM YOUR ADVENTURE BUDDY
– Recognition of Indigenous history
– Sign of respect and gratitude
– Fostering community and connections
– Highlighting local indigenous
Attending the Caldwell First Nation Pow Wow is more than just a chance to watch dance performances or hear powerful songs – it’s an opportunity to recognize indigenous history, show respect and gratitude, and foster meaningful connections with the community. For me, this experience was a reminder that every adventure begins on someone else’s homeland first. By attending, supporting Indigenous-owned businesses, and continuing to learn, we all play a part in honouring these traditions and ensuring they thrive for generations to come. This is more than an event – it’s a celebration of life, community, and heritage. I hope you’ll join in next year, immerse yourself fully, and carry the lessons of Mino Bimaadiziwin – living the good life – with you wherever your adventures take you. See you on the next adventure together!
Recognizing the Indigenous culture in our area is important as it is the basis of many traditions, customs, language and our connections to the land and life-sustaining resources. There are many interesting facts, attractions and points of interest here in Windsor Essex that relate to Indigenous History. We encourage you to explore and learn while visiting the attractions listed here.
