For Native Americans, this event is called a Powwow. It is a time to join in singing, dancing, visiting, and the sharing of talents and crafts. Yet, Native Americans also see it as a time to remember and preserve the rich heritage of traditions and beliefs that, only decades ago, were at risk of being lost forever. Some Powwows are large, week-long events that bring thousands of people from tribes together. Others are smaller, attracting only members of a particular community or tribe for one day.
Powwows are special occasions for many Native American families.
They started long ago as the Indian people began to feel their culture slipping away. In the late 1800's and early 1900's Indians were not allowed to have dances. Some people in the government thought the dances were organized to resist federal forces. These people did not realize that the dances were held only to thank their Creator for the earth and the gifts they had received, or to ask for special favors. In the 1960's, officials realized that these dances and traditions were not dangerous, only important to Native Americans.