Native American Pow Wow slated for April 6-7
April 1, 2002
KALAMAZOO -- Thousands of spectators will once again be on the Western Michigan University campus this spring for the annual Native American Pow Wow from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, April 6, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, April 7, in University Arena.
Now in its 13th year, the gathering features Native American dance, dance competitions, spectacular regalia, drumming, singing, food and artwork. It is open to the public, and families are encouraged to attend.
This year's event, "Connecting with Community," is an "open drum" with a variety of drum groups able to participate. It is being sponsored by the Native American Student Organization and Division of Multicultural Affairs at WMU.
Pine Creek Singers, will serve as the "host drum," opening all grand entries and concluding the pow wow ceremony.
The grand entries, which feature dancers, singers, drummers and flag bearers in traditional clothing, are the only time all dancers are on the floor together. They will take place at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday and at 1 p.m. Sunday.
Dancers also can be seen throughout the weekend performing in categorical dance competitions and inter-tribal dances. Contests will include "jingle dance," "grass dance," and children's dances as well as men's and women's traditional and fancy dances. Dance competitors are treated to dinner on Saturday night.
Native American jewelry and arts and crafts from a variety of vendors, as well as pow wow memorabilia, will be available for purchase. Food vendors will sell such traditional treats as fry bread, Indian tacos and buffalo burgers.
Admission to the event is $5 for adults and $3 for senior citizens and children ages 5 to 17. There is no admission charge for children under age 5 and WMU students with valid student identification cards. Lot parking is available around University Arena for $3 per vehicle.
For more information, call the Native American Student Organization office at (269) 387-2279 or contact Jodi Palmer in the Division of Multicultural Affairs at (269) 387-4106 or <jodie.palmer@wmich.edu>.
Media contact: Jeanne Baron, 269 387-8400, jeanne.baron@wmich.edu