A tribal tradition takes place with the sounds of the drum beats. Photo by Jess Lindner on Unsplash.
The Native American culture has a tapestry of traditions that passes down through generations. Pow wows are a social gathering of American Indian culture in which people come together for dancing, singing, and honoring their ancestors. The term “pow wow” is an English version of the Algonquian word called “pau-wau,” which originated in one of the Algonquian nations of the Northeastern region. The word describes a healing ceremony that is held for spiritual and entertaining purposes. A pow wow is also a way to call ceremonies that reward hunting or give gratitude for a bounteous harvest.
Pow wows are often held once a year and take place in a period of one to four days. There are many artists that come from hundreds of miles away to perform during the celebration. Since the tradition incorporates the spiritual idea of life and death that follow a continuous circle, a pow wow is often set up as a series of large circles in which the artists perform the dance. Besides the circles, there is an area for spectators as well as an area that is designated for selling food. A pow wow is officially started by The Grand Entry: people carry flags that represent many tribes and then follow the music to enter the arena. Singing, chanting, dancing, and traditional healing play a significant role in the ceremony. Different styles of dancing and singing are descended from the traditions of the Great Plains, and it also depends on which region in the United States that pow wow is held. Many performers in the pow wow wear their traditional attire. In general, a pow wow is a celebration filled with vivid colors, music, and enjoyment.
A Native American guardian totem. Photo by Stéfano Girardelli on Unsplash.
Pow wows are extremely important to Native Americans as it is an opportunity to hand down the traditional legacy to younger generations; moreover, it is an activity that strengthens the Native American communities through exchanging their music and dance. In this day and age, pow wows are unique events where Indigenous people honour and preserve their culture. This event is a great chance for everyone to learn about the unique and valuable culture of the Native American people.
References