The List of Memorial Day Pow Wows and Basic Powwow Etiquette is a guide that will immerse you in the vibrant and deeply spiritual world of the powwow. These gatherings, steeped in tradition and history, are more than just festivals; they are celebrations of Native American culture, heritage, and community. As the drumbeat resonates – often referred to as the heartbeat of the people – and the colorful regalia of the dancers swirls in the arena, visitors are invited to witness and participate in a powerful expression of cultural identity. However, entering this space requires respect, understanding, and a willingness to learn. This article provides a glimpse into the significance of the powwow and offers essential etiquette guidelines to ensure a respectful and enriching experience for all.
Understanding the Powwow
Powwows are social, cultural, and spiritual gatherings held by many Native American and First Nations communities across North America. While each tribe and region has its own unique traditions and customs, the underlying purpose remains the same: to celebrate Native American identity, honor ancestors, and strengthen community bonds. These events often feature drumming, singing, dancing, storytelling, and traditional arts and crafts. The List of Memorial Day Pow Wows and Basic Powwow Etiquette emphasizes the importance of understanding what the powwow is at its core: a sacred celebration.
The Memorial Day weekend is a particularly popular time for powwows, providing an opportunity to honor veterans and celebrate the end of winter. These gatherings offer a chance for people to come together, share their culture, and express gratitude for the blessings they have received. They are vibrant displays of resilience and cultural pride, showcasing the enduring spirit of Native American communities.
The Sacred Space: Etiquette in the Dance Arena
The heart of any powwow is the dance arena, often referred to as the dance circle or dance arbor. This is considered sacred ground, akin to a church or temple, and should be treated with the utmost respect. The arena is not merely a performance space; it is a place where prayers are offered, ancestors are honored, and the spirit of the people is expressed through movement and song.
- Respect the Circle: Under no circumstances should anyone, especially children, play in the dance circle. It is also disrespectful to take shortcuts across the arena, walk animals near or on the circle, or engage in fighting or cursing within earshot of the dancing.
- Seating Arrangements: Seating around the dance arena is often limited. The front row is typically reserved for elders and dancers, so avoid sitting there. If a shawl or blanket is placed on a seat, it indicates that the seat is reserved. It is customary to bring your own lawn chair to ensure a place to sit.
- Listen to the Arena Director: The arena director or master of ceremonies (MC) plays a crucial role in guiding the powwow. They will explain the events taking place and provide instructions on when it is appropriate to take pictures or videos. It is essential to follow their directions carefully.
Photography Guidelines: Capturing Memories Respectfully
Photography can be a wonderful way to document your experience at a powwow, but it is vital to be mindful of cultural sensitivities. Some ceremonies and dances are considered sacred and should not be photographed under any circumstances.
- General Photography: Generally, it is acceptable to take pictures of group dancing in the arena unless the arena director specifically prohibits it. Always listen carefully to the announcements and follow any restrictions.
- Pueblo and Hopi Powwows: When attending a powwow hosted by a Pueblo tribe in New Mexico or the Hopi tribe, exercise extreme caution regarding photography. These cultures have strict policies regarding cameras and video equipment. Photography may be completely prohibited, or a special permit may be required, often involving a fee and a detailed explanation of how the images will be used. Failure to comply with these rules can result in camera confiscation, being escorted off the property, or even arrest.
- Individual Dancers: Outside the dance arena, always ask dancers for permission before taking their picture. Most dancers are happy to share their culture and allow photographs, but it is crucial to respect their wishes if they decline.
Language and Regalia: Showing Appreciation and Understanding
The language used and the way dancers’ attire is viewed are critical aspects of showing respect at a powwow.
- "Regalia," Not "Costume": Never refer to a dancer’s outfit as a "costume." This is deeply offensive. The proper term is "regalia." Regalia is not a mere costume for play-acting; it is a sacred and meaningful ensemble that reflects a dancer’s identity, heritage, and spiritual connection.
- Respect the Regalia: Never touch a dancer’s regalia or any part of it. These items are often family heirlooms passed down through generations or meticulously crafted for the dancer, requiring hundreds of hours of labor. They hold deep spiritual significance and are delicate and difficult to clean. The oils on your hands can easily soil leather and feathers.
- Offer to Share: A thoughtful gesture is to offer to send dancers copies of any photos you take of them.
Demonstrating Respect: Standing, Silence, and Gratitude
Several other actions demonstrate respect for the traditions and participants of the powwow.
- Hats Off: Male spectators should remove their hats while watching the dancing as a sign of respect.
- Stand for Sacred Songs: Stand for all Grand Entries, Flag Songs, and Veteran Songs, as well as at other times directed by the arena director. The Grand Entry, Flag Songs, and Veteran Songs are among the most sacred parts of the powwow, akin to the singing of a national anthem. Avoid talking or fidgeting during these songs. If you have a physical limitation that prevents you from standing, it is acceptable to remain seated.
- Grand Entries: There are usually two Grand Entries each day of the powwow. The first typically occurs around noon or 1:00 pm, followed by a dinner break around 4:00 or 5:00 pm. The second Grand Entry usually takes place around 6:00 pm. However, these times may vary, so it is best to consult the specific powwow schedule.
Participating in the Experience: Intertribals, Ceremonies, and Specials
Beyond observing the dancing and ceremonies, there are opportunities to participate in the powwow in a respectful manner.
- Competition Dancing: In modern powwows, dancers often wear numbers pinned to their regalia, indicating that they have paid a fee to compete for cash prizes.
- Intertribal Dances: When the announcer calls for an "Intertribal" dance, anyone is welcome to join in, even if they are not wearing regalia. This is a chance for visitors to participate in the celebration and experience the joy of dancing.
- Other Ceremonies: Powwows often include other ceremonies, such as giveaways to honor a deceased person, celebrate a young person’s achievements, or acknowledge a significant life event. Naming ceremonies and adoptions may also take place. Dancers may announce a "Special" dance to promote healing, honor a loved one in the military, or support another cause.
- Exhibition Dances and Specials: "Exhibition Dances" showcase less commonly performed dances. "Specials" are dances or songs dedicated to a particular purpose or to honor a special person, promote healing, or commemorate an event. "Sneakups" are dances with unpredictable beats designed to test the dancers’ skills and eliminate less experienced competitors.
Exploring the Powwow Grounds: Arts, Crafts, Food, and More
In addition to the dancing and ceremonies, powwows often feature arts and crafts booths, food vendors, and other activities.
- Arts and Crafts: Browse the arts and crafts booths to purchase unique and authentic Native American-made items.
- Food: Sample traditional foods from the various food booths. Some powwows even offer a free community feast of traditional foods.
- Camping: Many powwows provide on-site primitive campsites for attendees, especially if the event lasts for more than one day.
- Additional Activities: Some powwows may include parades, rodeo events, horse races, fun runs, games for children, and traditional gambling games like hand games (also called stick games). There may also be craft demonstrations and storytelling events.
Upcoming Pow Wows in May
The List of Memorial Day Pow Wows and Basic Powwow Etiquette would not be complete without a list of powwows. While many powwows are held on the same weekend each year, it is always best to verify dates with the powwow committee before making travel arrangements, especially for first-time or second-time annual events, which are more susceptible to changes or cancellations.
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(Note: The following list is based on the provided text from 2013 and is likely outdated. It serves as an example of the information you might find for a specific year. Always consult updated resources for current powwow schedules.)
- Spring Bear Pow Wow: Denver, Colorado
- Drums on the Pocomoke: Pocomoke City, Maryland
- Snow Mountain Pow Wow: Las Vegas, Nevada
- Oshke-Kno-Kewéwen Pow Wow: Dowagiac, Michigan
- Big Sandy Rancheria Pow Wow & Gathering: Auberry, California
- AIS Memorial Day Weekend Powwow: Spencer, Massachusetts
- De-Un-Da-Ga Memorial Day Powwow: Carlton, Pennsylvania
- Standing Bear Powwow: Bakersfield, California
- American Indian Council of Laredo Memorial Day PowWow: Laredo, Texas
- Native Woodland Gathering: Zanesfield, Ohio
- Pow Wow On The Hudson: Beacon, New York
- MOWA Choctaw Pow Wow for Youth: Mount Vernon, Alabama
- UCR Pow Wow: Riverside, California
- Monacan Powwow: Elon, Virginia
- Tunica-Biloxi Pow Wow: Marksville, Louisiana
- Stanford Pow Wow: Stanford, California
- Dartmouth Pow Wow: Dartmouth College Campus
- Memorial Day Traditional Pow Wow: Cass Lake, Minnesota
Conclusion: Embracing the Spirit of the Powwow
Attending a powwow is a unique and rewarding experience that offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Native American communities. By following these etiquette guidelines, visitors can show respect for the traditions and participants of the powwow, ensuring a positive and meaningful experience for everyone involved. Remember that the List of Memorial Day Pow Wows and Basic Powwow Etiquette is a starting point; continuous learning and a genuine desire to understand and appreciate Native American culture are essential for fostering respectful relationships and celebrating the enduring spirit of these vibrant communities.