Drums, feathers, and warm spirits turned the Elmira High School gym into a place of celebration Saturday. Hundreds of American Indians gathered together to dance, sing and praise their culture. “Is everyone ready to powwow?” the master of ceremonies asked to start things off. Drums then began to pound as he continued, “This powwow is for the kids, for the next generation – the ones that will carry our traditions onto tomorrow.” The hope of this powwow, and many others like it, is to praise the triumphs of the elders and at the same time inspire the youth to keep the traditions of their heritage alive.
The festivities began with a grand entry, a parade of all the people entering the arena. Everyone is asked to stand as the veterans bring the flags into the arena. An American flag is included, symbolizing two things – a way to remember all of the ancestors who fought against this country and to represent the United States of which American Indians are now a part. Soon a circle is formed around the arena and a blessing takes place. For the remainder of the day, it is considered sacred and the drums beat on for hours, while the traditionally dressed natives dance in pride for their culture.
University senior Lorraine Dowty, a frequent powwow attendee who studies native music and cultural anthropology, believes in the power of powwows. “Traditionally native oral history is very important when passing on wisdom, and the powwow creates an opportunity to do that,” Dowty said. These powwows welcome the public and share with all cultures.
“The powwow brings in a lot of people, not just natives, utilizing their ability to communicate to a vast array of cultures and create a celebration for all,” Dowty said.
For Dowty and other American Indian enthusiasts, powwows give a wonderful opportunity to engage in their vast tradition. Through vibrant celebration, a history of culture is taught to both American Indian youth and those interested in the culture, providing them with a renewed sense of tradition.
Click here to view a photo slideshow for this story.