For Kevin and Rob Riel, taking part in the Grand Entry at the Winnipeg School Division Graduation Pow Wow on June 3 was about far more than carrying Eagle Staffs.
An Eagle Staff is a sacred symbol of identity, community and leadership, carried with great honour at Indigenous ceremonies and gatherings.
As more than 2,500 graduates gathered at Canada Life Centre to celebrate the Class of 2026, the brothers stood as living reminders of what is possible when young people are encouraged to embrace who they are and where they come from.
Growing up, opportunities to openly celebrate their Red River Métis heritage were not always available. Like many Indigenous families of their generation, their parents navigated a world where blending in often felt safer than standing out.
Today, both men are helping create a different reality for the next generation.
Rob, Assistant Superintendent of Indigenous Education with Winnipeg School Division, carried the Division's Eagle Staff. Kevin, an Inspector with the Winnipeg Police Service, carried the WPS Eagle Staff.
Together, they helped lead thousands of graduates, families and community members into a celebration of achievement, culture and belonging.
"Any time you get to carry the Eagle Staff, it's a huge honour," Kevin said. "It was particularly meaningful for me to do it alongside my brother."
For Kevin, the moment represented more than family pride.
Although they pursued different careers, both brothers have dedicated much of their lives to building relationships and supporting Indigenous communities in Winnipeg.
"It's actually funny that we're in two separate careers, but we're both doing the same thing," Kevin said. "Building and supporting the Indigenous community in Winnipeg. That's what makes me proud."
That message was reflected throughout the Pow Wow itself.
The annual event brings Indigenous and non-Indigenous students, families and educators together to celebrate graduation while honouring Indigenous culture, traditions and ways of knowing. Graduates wore red stoles representing Indigenous students and yellow stoles representing allies, highlighting the role everyone plays in building understanding and community.
For Rob, events like this help reclaim traditions that were once discouraged while creating opportunities for people to learn from one another.
"It's reclaiming something that was taken away," he said. "It allows community to walk alongside each other. We're getting to know the true history, and it's okay to celebrate who you are."
For the Riel brothers, standing side-by-side during the Grand Entry was a powerful reminder of how far that journey has come.
More importantly, it was an opportunity for thousands of young people to see Indigenous leadership in action and know that their culture, identity and future all belong together.