HISTORY OF THE POW-WOW

The word pow-wow derives from the Algonquian for a gathering of medicine men and spiritual leaders in a curing ceremony. A’ PAUAU! or “PAUWAU.”

Historically, nations in North America held ceremonies celebrating successful hunts food gathering, or warfare. These ceremonies allowed the people to give thanks, honor their deceased relatives, or deal with special honors such as name-giving ceremonies adoptions, and coming of age rites. Many times they were held to renew allegiances and maintain friendships with members of visiting tribes. The ceremonies often involved dancing and feasting.

Regardless of where we live, whether it is in an urban setting or on a reservation! Or whether the event is a major encampment or a mini-pow-wow. We continue to express our cultures in the pow-wow. For a brief period of time we can put aside our professional non-Indian roles and come together from our diverse tribal background and with a unity of spirit enjoy the dance and celebrate life.

The pow-wow brings people together in a common purpose.  Families interact among themselves and other families.  Tribal members reaffirm their heritage and identity. Hands of friendship extend to other tribes and cultures. A network of support strengthens and entire race of people. To be Native American is to be proud. To know who we are where you came from. Knowing these things helps natives to guide their future. The interaction of families with their children and their elders insures a continuation of culture. The pow-wow provides forum in which this can take place.

There is no single word that describes the pow-wow. Pow wow is Indian. Though nowadays there is an emphasis on contest dancing. The pow-wow is a place of healing, praying, dancing and singing, a place to join others in pride and respect, and a place to feel good. Pow-wow means the gathering of relations of people, a place people come to get well, feel good about themselves, and about their people. It is a place of good spirits.