2007 Powwow in Washington, DC
The Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Indian will hold its annual National Powwow in Washington, DC from August 10-12, 2007. This is one of the most colorful and awe-inspiring cultural events in the world.
Powwows are not reenactments of events held long ago. Powwow dances, songs, namings and other ceremonies have evolved over the years. Today's powwows contain elements of the original forms of cultural expressions as well as contemporary interpretations that celebrate the past.
Today's powwows reflect traditions of many Plains communities that share their customs, languages, songs, dances, and foods. The powwow extols the values of beauty, honor, and tradition by paying homage to past, present, and future generations through music, dance, namings, and other ceremonies.
A traditional element of powwows is to recognize the vfalor and courage of warriors through honoring songs and presentations. This year's National Powwow will acknowledge Native and non-Native men and women of the armed forces who will receive special honor in song, dance, and remembrance. All veterans are encouraged to attend, as their dedication and sacrifice will be recognized as we pay tribute to the voluntary service of American Indians in every war and conflict fought by the United States since the Revolutionary War.
The National Powwow will begin with the Grand Entry, a ceremonial procession of esteemed veterans and tribal leaders who bring in the traditional eagle staffs and the colors of their respective Nations along with the flag of the USA.
After the color guards and tribal dignitaries enter, a procession of dancers (hundreds upon hundreds of them) circle closer and closer to the center of the arena until the entire arena is filled with a spiralizing, unbroken circle of dancers. Drum after drum is invited to sing a song of tribute to the seemingly never-ending line of men, women, and children dancing as one. It's a breathtaking sight!
Powwows are not reenactments of events held long ago. Powwow dances, songs, namings and other ceremonies have evolved over the years. Today's powwows contain elements of the original forms of cultural expressions as well as contemporary interpretations that celebrate the past.
Today's powwows reflect traditions of many Plains communities that share their customs, languages, songs, dances, and foods. The powwow extols the values of beauty, honor, and tradition by paying homage to past, present, and future generations through music, dance, namings, and other ceremonies.
A traditional element of powwows is to recognize the vfalor and courage of warriors through honoring songs and presentations. This year's National Powwow will acknowledge Native and non-Native men and women of the armed forces who will receive special honor in song, dance, and remembrance. All veterans are encouraged to attend, as their dedication and sacrifice will be recognized as we pay tribute to the voluntary service of American Indians in every war and conflict fought by the United States since the Revolutionary War.
The National Powwow will begin with the Grand Entry, a ceremonial procession of esteemed veterans and tribal leaders who bring in the traditional eagle staffs and the colors of their respective Nations along with the flag of the USA.
After the color guards and tribal dignitaries enter, a procession of dancers (hundreds upon hundreds of them) circle closer and closer to the center of the arena until the entire arena is filled with a spiralizing, unbroken circle of dancers. Drum after drum is invited to sing a song of tribute to the seemingly never-ending line of men, women, and children dancing as one. It's a breathtaking sight!
