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Culture, Heritage and Tourism Minister Eric Robinson today saluted the organizers of and participants in the Manito Ahbee Festival for a highly successful and exciting weekend.

 

“I am very proud to have been a part of the Manito Ahbee Festival this weekend.  More than 20,000 people converged over the four days to watch and be part of this national cultural gathering which showcased the immense talent and artistic ability of the Aboriginal community,” said Robinson.

 

The four-day festival was composed of five components, starting on Friday night with the inaugural Aboriginal Peoples Choice Music Awards.  Artists from across North America attended this premier event along with over 4,000 cheering fans.  Local artists Eagle & Hawk and Hank Horton were among those who took home the coveted awards.

 

“We have immense Aboriginal talent here in the province.  We are very proud our artists have been recognized for their outstanding music.  We all share in the excitement of their well-deserved wins,” added Robinson.

 

The weekend’s festivities also included the Indigenous Marketplace and Tradeshow at the MTS Centre and the North American powwow competition. Nearly 1,000 dancers from Canada and the United States attended one of the largest powwows in Winnipeg’s history.  Dancers and drum groups in all age categories competed for $150,000 in cash prizes.

 

“This was a great opportunity to feature Manitoba’s spectacular Aboriginal culture and heritage,” concluded Robinson.

 

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