Pow wows, vibrant celebrations of Native American and Indigenous cultures, serve as powerful displays of tradition, community, and heritage. While specific details may vary depending on the geographical location, tribal affiliation, and type of gathering, a central and profoundly significant element shared by nearly all pow wows is The Grand Entry. This majestic procession marks the official commencement of the pow wow, setting the tone for the festivities that follow and acting as a visual testament to the pride and resilience of Native peoples.
This article will delve into the intricacies of The Grand Entry, primarily focusing on the practices commonly observed at Northern Pow Wows. We will explore the order of participants, the symbolism behind their attire and actions, and the profound respect that underpins this captivating ceremony.
Unveiling the Sequence: A Procession of Honor
The Grand Entry is not merely a parade; it is a carefully orchestrated procession steeped in meaning and tradition. The order in which individuals enter the dance arena, often referred to as the arbor, is meticulously determined, reflecting a hierarchy of respect and responsibility.
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The Eagle Staff: The most honored symbol, the Eagle Staff, leads The Grand Entry. The Eagle Staff, adorned with eagle feathers – each feather representing a prayer, an individual, or a significant event – is a sacred object representing the people, their values, and their connection to the Creator. It is carried with utmost reverence, symbolizing the spiritual foundation of the pow wow. The individual carrying the Eagle Staff is typically a respected elder or veteran, chosen for their wisdom and integrity.
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Flags of Nation and Tribe: Following the Eagle Staff come the flags. First, the American and Canadian flags are presented, acknowledging the nations within whose boundaries the pow wow is being held. This is followed by the flags of individual states, provinces, and, most importantly, the tribal flags. The tribal flags represent the sovereignty and unique identity of each participating tribe, a powerful statement of self-determination and cultural pride.
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Tribal Royalty and Dignitaries: Next in the procession are title holders from tribal pageants, such as the Pow Wow Princess or Brave. These individuals represent the beauty, strength, and cultural knowledge of their respective tribes. They are often followed by invited dignitaries, respected elders, and community leaders who hold positions of authority and influence within the tribal community. Their presence acknowledges their contributions and reinforces the importance of intergenerational connections.
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The Men: Warriors and Dancers: The male dancers enter the arena next, showcasing the diversity of Native dance traditions. Traditionally, the men enter in the following order:
- Traditional Dancers: These dancers embody the historical and spiritual roots of Native culture. Their regalia, often made from natural materials like deer hide, feathers, and beadwork, reflects the styles of their ancestors. Their movements are deliberate and dignified, telling stories of hunting, warfare, and everyday life.
- Grass Dancers: Grass Dancers represent the act of smoothing the earth and preparing the ground for a gathering or celebration. Their regalia is characterized by long, flowing fringe that mimics the movement of prairie grass. Their dances are fluid and graceful, symbolizing harmony and renewal.
- Fancy Dancers: Fancy Dancers are known for their athleticism and dazzling displays of skill. Their regalia is brightly colored and adorned with elaborate beadwork and feathers. Their dances are fast-paced and energetic, showcasing their agility and creativity.
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The Women: Strength and Grace: Following the men, the female dancers grace the arena with their presence, representing the strength, resilience, and nurturing spirit of Native women. The order of entry is similar to that of the men:
- Traditional Dancers: Like their male counterparts, female Traditional Dancers embody the historical and spiritual foundations of Native culture. Their regalia is often adorned with intricate beadwork, quillwork, and ribbonwork, reflecting the unique artistic traditions of their tribes. Their dances are elegant and dignified, telling stories of family, community, and the importance of women in Native society.
- Fancy Shawl Dancers: Fancy Shawl Dancers are known for their graceful movements and vibrant shawls, which are often adorned with intricate designs and beadwork. Their dances are said to represent butterflies emerging from their cocoons, symbolizing transformation and freedom.
- Jingle Dress Dancers: Jingle Dress Dancers wear dresses adorned with hundreds of metal cones, which create a distinctive jingling sound as they move. The Jingle Dress Dance is a healing dance, originating from the Ojibwe people, and is often performed to offer prayers for those who are sick or in need.
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The Youth: Future Generations: The final participants in The Grand Entry are the junior boys and girls, followed by the "Tiny Tots" – the youngest members of the community. They enter in the same order as the adults, representing the continuation of tradition and the passing down of cultural knowledge to future generations. Their participation in The Grand Entry instills in them a sense of pride, belonging, and responsibility to their heritage.
Dancing Sunwise: A Circle of Unity
As the dancers enter the arbor, they move sunwise – clockwise – around the circle. This direction mirrors the movement of the sun across the sky, symbolizing the cycle of life, renewal, and the interconnectedness of all things. This circular movement also creates a sense of unity and community, bringing everyone together in a shared experience.
The dancers use this time to showcase their regalia and dance steps, demonstrating their skills and sharing their cultural identity with the audience. It is an opportunity for them to be seen, recognized, and celebrated for their dedication to their traditions. Their regalia, often referred to as a "dance outfit," is a deeply personal and meaningful expression of their identity. It is important to note that the term "costume" is often considered disrespectful by many pow wow dancers, as it trivializes the sacredness and significance of their attire. Many dancers have invested countless hours into creating their regalia, or it may have been passed down through generations, representing a tangible link to their ancestors.
Honoring the Veterans and Invoking Blessings
Once The Grand Entry song concludes, a Flag Song is performed. This song is a tribute to veterans, honoring their service and sacrifice. It is considered the equivalent of a national anthem, and attendees are expected to stand as a sign of respect, unless they are physically unable to do so.
Following the Flag Song, an invocation is often offered, blessing the gathering and seeking guidance from the Creator. The Eagle Staff, the paramount symbol of the pow wow, is then either secured to a pole in the center of the dance arbor, signifying its central importance, or brought to the announcer’s stand, ensuring its visibility and reverence throughout the event.
A welcome address is then extended to all attendees, followed by brief remarks from dignitaries and community leaders. These speeches often express gratitude to the organizers, acknowledge the significance of the event, and offer words of encouragement and inspiration.
Let the Dancing Begin!
With the ceremonial aspects of The Grand Entry complete, the dancing can officially begin. The arbor comes alive with the rhythm of the drums, the vibrant colors of the regalia, and the energy of the dancers. The pow wow is now in full swing, a celebration of Native American culture, community, and resilience. The Grand Entry serves as a powerful reminder of the traditions that bind Native peoples together and a testament to the enduring strength of their spirit.
In conclusion, The Grand Entry is a deeply meaningful and visually stunning spectacle that sets the stage for the entire pow wow. It is a celebration of heritage, a tribute to veterans, and a symbol of unity and respect. By understanding the significance of the participants, the order of the procession, and the underlying symbolism, attendees can gain a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural traditions that are on display at a pow wow.