Paul's 2022 Pow Wow

What is a Pow Wow?

Some believe that when Native American tribes were forced onto reservations, the government coerced them to dance for the public to come and see. Before each dance, they were led through the town in parade, which was the beginning of the Grand Entry.

Today Pow Wows are organized by committees that work for weeks before the event. At the Pow Wow, the MC and Arena Director run the event. The MC works with the Arena Director to keep the Pow Wow Organized and running smoothly. Theses tow individuals along with the committee work hard to bring the people together to dance and fellowship together in the circle.

The Pow Wows begins with the Grand Entry. This is the entry of the people entering the arena. This originally was a parade through the town of Pow Wow was in. Even today in some Pow Wow, these parades are still held. During the Grand Entry, everyone is asked

to stand as the flags are brought into the arena.

Among the important guests of the Pow Wow include: Tribal Chiefs, Princesses, Elders, and Pow Wow organizers. Next, in line are the men dancers. The men are followed by the woman dancers. Once everyone is in the arena, the song ends and a song is sung to honor the flags.

The flag has a dual meaning. First, it is a way to remember all of the ancestors who fought against this country. It is also the symbol of the North America which Native Americans are now a part of. The flag here also reminds people of those people who have fought for this country.

One of the most important things in the life of a Native American is the Drum.

Our whole culture centers around the Drum. Without the Drum and the singers around it, the Native Americans could not have pow wows. The Drum brings the heart beat of our Earth Mother to the Pow Wow for all to feel and hear. Drumming brings everyone back into balance. Whether dancing, sing or just listening, people around the Drum can connect with the spirit. The Drum is to be treated with greatest respect.

Being head singer is a great honor. The man who receives this honor is chosen for his experience. He has the right to lead all songs unless he chooses other men to lead and help carry the load. The head singer may open the Drum at his discretion. This means anyone may lead songs at any time.

While at the Drum, the singers should keep their thoughts on the songs and should keep the beat of the Drum. Generally, singers should not leave the Drum to dance. However, at many contest po wows, many singers compete.

Most dances seen at Pow Wows today are social dance which might have had different meanings in earlier days. although dance styles and content have changed, their meaning and importance have not. The outfits worn by dancers, like the styles of clothing today evolve, it is not a stagnant culture but a vibrant and changing way of life.

The dance styles seen most frequently at modern Pow Wows include Chicken, Grass, Fancy, Straight and Northern Traditional for men. The woman dance Buckskin, Cloth, Jingle, and Fancy Shawl. Depending on the region, you may see other dance styles such as Smoke, Bird or Gourd Dancing.

Each Pow Wow stands as its own entity. Whether it's a casino-sponsored, tribal Pow Wows, or even a combination of both, they have their distinct identities. There's a fascinating array of styles across the United States and Canada. First, we have contest Pow Wows, where dancers gather to showcase their skills and compete for money, recognition, and other prizes. There are also traditional or inter-tribal Pow Wows, which are non-competitive and focus on ceremonial and celebratory aspects. Each style has its unique charm and significance.