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Pow Wows – A Great Way to Experience Native Culture
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Submitted by by
Kim Kinrade
1 year(s) ago
(via
travelmills.com
) |
You’ve probably heard the term “pow wow” on old Western movies where powwows were usually a planned meeting between the white cavalry commanders and Native Americans. However a powwow is actually a Native American way of getting together for exchanging stories, singing, dancing, seeing old friends and making new friendships. It is also a time to celebrate Native American history and preserve the rich culture.
Powwows were often though to have been started by the southern plains tribes to meet for trade purposes and settle differences. Another school of thought was that they began after the American government forced them onto reservations. The natives were then made to hold dancing festivals for curious white people. These were usually begun by performances that were started with a Grand Entry, a parade through town that is still used today.
The glue that holds the festival together is the pow wow music and dancing. Most of the songs are sung in native dialects and can be revivals of old songs or new ones. It is these songs that contain the stories of the old Native American culture. It is also the scene of baseball games and other tournaments that visitors can watch.
Pow wows area a big draw for non-native peoples as well. Visitors are welcomed into the fold and are instructed as to the protocol of the Native American tribes because many of the customs are sacred. Here are a few rules:
1. Listen to the Master of Ceremonies: This is where the visitor will get the history and the instructions for the powwow events.
2. A native American’s regalia is not a costume: These beautifully hand-crafted outfits contain pieces of the member’s family and clan history.
3. Never touch a member’s outfit: Touching an outfit is a sign of disrespect. There will be plenty of time to sample outfits in the displays.
4. Photographing is allowed only at certain times: Having flashes go off at inappropriate times takes way from the ceremony. Also ask a member if he or she can be photographed.
5. Dance Arbor: This is a sacred area and visitors are reminded not to enter without being asked.
6. Recording: This is by permission only.
7. No alcohol or drugs:
8. Have a good time!
Other activities during a pow wow including staying in a genuine wigwam of the Native America tribe who built it. This is a great adventure because you sleep in buffalo robes and are stirred by stories of great buffalo hunts and lulled to sleep with beautiful music.
Check with your travel agent concerning pow wows or simple go on-line and find one.
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