The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations is in support of any First Nation choosing to conduct traditional spiritual ceremonies.

Last weekend the RCMP responded to reports of a large gathering on the Beardy’s and Okemasis First Nation to remind people about the public health order about gatherings.

Police estimate there were 35 people there, but the FSIN reports there were about 20 and says the attendees were dispersed.

FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron says those at the ceremony were practicing all the physical distancing protocols, but Premier Scott Moe says there can be no exemption because “the virus doesn’t care” and the public health orders need to be followed for the safety of everyone.

Chief of the Beardy’s and Okemasis First Nation, Edwin Ananas, is frustrated. He gives the example of walking into a Walmart store, which would have more people inside than at the Sundance ceremony. He believes the ceremonies are being targeted.