In the latest episode of the Matriarch Movement podcast, we had the honor of speaking with Deanne Hupfield (she/her), a regalia maker and powwow dancer from Temagami First Nation.

Deanne shared her inspiring journey of healing and cultural reclamation, providing insight into the profound impact of community and tradition on personal growth.

Understanding Regalia: More Than Just Attire

Deanne began by highlighting the significance of regalia within Indigenous culture, explaining that it’s not just a “costume” but a profound expression of nationhood and spiritual connection. Regalia serves as a symbol of identity and pride, allowing different nations to showcase their unique cultural heritage. Deanne’s journey with regalia began at the age of seven when she attended her first powwow. She vividly remembers how these early experiences, coupled with her challenging upbringing in foster care, fueled her desire to reconnect with her roots and reclaim her cultural identity.

A Path of Healing Through Culture and Community

Deanne’s path to healing was neither straightforward nor easy. She openly discussed her struggles with addiction and the pivotal role a social worker, Ron, played in guiding her toward cultural healing practices. Her involvement in powwow dancing and traditional ceremonies, such as vision quests, became vital components of her recovery process. Through these cultural practices, Deanne found solace and strength, which helped her overcome her addictions and embrace her role in the community.

The Healing Power of Powwow Dancing

Powwows have always been central to Indigenous culture, serving as both a celebration and a form of resistance against colonial influences. Deanne described the historical evolution of powwows and their ongoing significance as community gatherings that promote healing and unity. She shared how the rhythmic drumming and dancing at powwows have biological healing effects, helping individuals reconnect with their heritage and find peace.

Addressing Generational Trauma

The conversation took a deeper turn as Deanne discussed the impact of generational trauma on her family and community. She candidly spoke about the loss of her sister to addiction and the continuing efforts to heal and protect her family from the shadows of this trauma. Deanne emphasized the importance of creating safe boundaries, seeking counseling, and finding support within the community to navigate these challenges.

Vision for the Future: Land Back and Community Building

Deanne’s vision for the future is rooted in the concept of “land back” and collective reconciliation. She stressed the need for non-Indigenous allies to actively support Indigenous voices and the return of land to sustain Indigenous communities. In her mission to build community capacity, Deanne is dedicated to training regalia makers and powwow dancers across Canada. With support from organizations like the MasterCard Foundation, she is organizing training sessions in various communities, including a session that happened in Winnipeg this past May.

Personal Growth and Commitment to Community

Beyond her work with regalia and dancing, Deanne is deeply committed to her role as a mother and aunt, focusing on the next generation’s well-being. She reflected on the joys and challenges of parenting while balancing her responsibilities to her family and community. Deanne expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of her husband, family, and community, acknowledging that their support has been crucial in her healing journey.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

In closing, Deanne shared her definition of a “matriarch” as a woman who takes charge of her family and creates positive movements within her community. She expressed admiration for other Indigenous women who have made significant contributions to their communities and emphasized the importance of supporting Native men and Two Spirit individuals in their healing journeys.

We invite you to follow Deanne on Instagram and tiktok (@deannehupfield) and participate in her online workshops to further support her mission at her website: https://www.deannehupfield.com/

Her journey of healing and cultural reclamation is a powerful reminder of the strength found in community and the importance of reconnecting with one’s roots. Thank you for joining us in this meaningful conversation, and we look forward to continuing to amplify Indigenous voices on the Matriarch Movement podcast.

Follow Deanne Hupfield on Instagram and tiktok (@deannehupfield)
Check out her website at https://www.deannehupfield.com

Thanks for checking out this episode of the Matriarch Movement podcast! If you enjoyed the conversation, please leave a comment and thumbs-up on YouTube, or leave a five star review on your favourite podcast app!
Find Shayla Oulette Stonechild on Instagram and tiktok: @shayla0h

Our producer is Nicole Robertson with Muskwa Productions.
Our podcast producer is Kattie Laur.
Our videographer is Sara Cornthwaite.

Behind the scenes photography is by Kikki Guerard, Michelle Aregentieri, and Stephanie Neves.
Special thanks to the Indigenous Screen Office for supporting Season 4 of the video podcast.