The two-headed being, a figure steeped in the rich tapestry of folklore, often symbolizes duality, conflicting viewpoints, and the complexities of choice. Found across diverse cultures, this archetypal character embodies the internal struggle between opposing forces. Within the context of American Indian culture, this representation takes on unique and thought-provoking dimensions.
This leads us to a fascinating question: How Would a Two-Headed Being Perceive the Modern-Day Powwow? Specifically, let’s consider such a being attending the 13th annual Harvest Powwow, an event held at Naper Settlement, an outdoor history museum village in Naperville, Illinois. To understand this hypothetical perspective, it’s essential to delve into the multifaceted nature of the powwow itself, examining its purpose, activities, and the diverse opinions surrounding its role in contemporary society.
The Harvest Powwow, organized by the Midwest SOARRING Foundation (Save Our Ancestors Remains and Resources Indigenous Network Group), a non-profit organization, is a vibrant celebration of American Indian heritage. The event is a kaleidoscope of sights and sounds, featuring captivating performances of traditional American Indian drumming and dance. Beyond the performances, the powwow offers a diverse array of cultural crafts available for purchase, providing attendees with tangible connections to the artistry and traditions of various tribes.
Attendees can immerse themselves in a range of cultural activities designed to educate and engage. Storytelling sessions transport listeners to different eras and landscapes, sharing wisdom and legends passed down through generations. Skilled artisans demonstrate the intricate techniques of basket weaving, transforming natural materials into functional and beautiful objects. The fragrant aroma of sweetgrass fills the air as participants learn the art of braiding this sacred herb, used for cleansing and prayer. Beading and jewelry making offer opportunities to create personalized adornments, while dance stick carving allows individuals to connect with the rhythm and symbolism of traditional dance. A dedicated children’s area provides younger attendees with age-appropriate games, crafts, and the chance to craft their own arrowheads, fostering an early appreciation for American Indian culture.
Adding to the event’s allure are special guest appearances. In this particular instance, award-winning singer and guitarist Michael Jacobs performed on both Saturday and Sunday, enriching the atmosphere with his musical talent. The marquee guest, however, was Sherman Alexie, a renowned Spokane/Coeur d’Alene Indian author of 18 books and screenwriter for acclaimed films such as "Smoke Signals" and "The Business of Fancydancing." Alexie’s presence added a layer of intellectual and artistic depth to the powwow, drawing attention to contemporary issues facing American Indians.
Now, let’s return to our hypothetical two-headed being. One head might perceive the powwow as a valuable platform for raising awareness of American Indian culture, fostering respect, and igniting interest in its rich history and traditions. From this perspective, the powwow serves as a bridge, connecting American Indian communities with the wider world and promoting cross-cultural understanding. The vibrant displays of dance, music, and artistry offer a glimpse into the beauty and complexity of American Indian heritage, challenging stereotypes and promoting appreciation.
However, the other head might harbor a more critical viewpoint. This head could view the powwow as a form of crass commercialism, potentially trivializing and commodifying American Indian heritage. Concerns might arise about the authenticity of the event, questioning whether it truly represents the diverse experiences and perspectives within American Indian communities. The sale of crafts, while providing economic opportunities, could be seen as exploiting cultural symbols and traditions for profit. The presence of non-Native attendees, particularly those perceived as "New Agers" or "American Indian wannabes," might be viewed with suspicion and concern, raising questions about cultural appropriation and respect. This head might see the event as, if not sacrilegious, at least insulting to the sacred traditions and spiritual practices of American Indian culture.
Joseph Standing Bear Schranz, an organizer of the Harvest Powwow and a descendant of the Ojibwe tribe, offers a perspective that aligns with the first head. He views the powwow as an opportunity for community involvement, charitable fundraising, and breaking down stereotypes that hinder cultural understanding. Schranz emphasizes the importance of creating a space where people can come together, learn from one another, and celebrate American Indian heritage. He believes that the powwow plays a crucial role in fostering dialogue, promoting empathy, and building bridges between different communities.
Sherman Alexie, however, offers a more nuanced and critical perspective, echoing some of the concerns of the second head. While acknowledging the good intentions behind many powwows, particularly those located far from reservations, he expresses concerns about the potential for dilution and inauthenticity. He worries that these gatherings can attract individuals with superficial interest or misguided intentions, potentially undermining the genuine cultural significance of the event. Alexie’s observations highlight the complexities of cultural representation and the challenges of maintaining authenticity in a rapidly changing world.
Alexie’s personal background provides further context for his perspective. Growing up on a Spokane Indian reservation in Washington state, he experienced firsthand the challenges and triumphs of American Indian life. Born with hydrocephalus, he faced significant health challenges throughout his childhood, overcoming adversity through intellectual curiosity and a passion for writing. His experiences shaped his understanding of cultural identity, social justice, and the power of storytelling.
Alexie’s literary works, including the novel "Flight" and the young adult novel "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian," offer unflinching and often humorous portrayals of American Indian life. Drawing on his own experiences growing up on the reservation and attending a predominantly white high school, he explores themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of navigating two different worlds. His writing resonates with readers of all backgrounds, prompting reflection on issues of race, class, and cultural understanding.
Schranz sees Alexie’s presence at the powwow as a significant honor, describing him as a "cutting-edge author" whose work challenges and inspires. He believes that Alexie’s unique perspective can contribute to a deeper understanding of American Indian culture and the challenges facing American Indian communities today. Schranz also highlights the importance of the Naperville cultural grant, which has enabled the Midwest SOARRING Foundation to expand the powwow and showcase the best of American Indian culture.
Beyond promoting American Indian culture, Schranz is also an active advocate for social justice and environmental protection. He has campaigned against racism, worked to protect sacred sites from development, recovered spiritual artifacts from museum displays, and promoted environmental stewardship. His organization, SOARRING, has saved 1,400 acres of land in Illinois, including an eagle sanctuary and burial ground near Starved Rock State Park.
Schranz emphasizes the importance of diplomacy and communication in achieving positive change, advocating for collaboration and understanding rather than confrontation. He believes that "the power of the heart is greater than the power of the fist," underscoring the importance of empathy and compassion in addressing complex social issues.
Ultimately, the question of How Would a Two-Headed Being Perceive the Modern-Day Powwow? remains open to interpretation. The powwow, like any cultural event, is a multifaceted phenomenon with the capability to be interpreted in numerous ways. The two heads, representing opposing viewpoints, highlight the inherent complexities and contradictions within the event itself. One head might see the powwow as a valuable celebration of culture and a vehicle for awareness, while the other might express concerns about commercialism and authenticity. The truth, as is often the case, likely lies somewhere in between, encompassing both the positive and negative aspects of this complex cultural event.