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BSU hosts Seven Arrows PowWow
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The Intertribal Native American Council is bringing this stimulating performance to the Boise State Campus both this Saturday and Sunday for all to attend. PowWows are meant to be social events, a time to see old friends and meet new ones. The 16th Annual Seven Arrows PowWow includes intertribal and contest dancing, the Miss Seven Arrows contest, student organization performances, drumming and grand entries on both days. Before attending the event, there are a few customs new guests should be aware of in order to make the most of their experience.
PowWow etiquette
Photography
-Use courtesy when taking pictures during
the dances.
-Head Singer must give permission to record a Native American drum as a sign of respect.
-Master of Ceremonies will also announce when recording and photography are prohibited.
-For pictures outside of the circle, be sure to introduce yourself and obtain permission.
Participation in Dances
-Wait for the Head Man or Head Woman to begin dancing before you join in.
-Do not enter the circle, or cut through, after it has been blessed.
-Only enter the circle during intertribal dances, round dances, blanket dances, or honoring dances.
Attire
-Appropriate dress and behavior is required. Wear something comfortable; guests do not need to dress up.
- Do not refer to a Native American dancer’s regalia as a costume. The attire is usually handcrafted by a respected member of the family, taking years to complete. The feathers especially are
considered sacred.
-Never touch the Dancer’s regalia without permission; it is seen as disrespectful.
General means of respect
-Stand during grand entry and closing songs. Men should remove their hats during this time.
-No alcohol or drugs permitted as today’s Native American PowWows are alcohol and drug
free environments.
-Pay attention to the Master of Ceremonies who will help advise visitors of cultural and social traditions.
If at any time you are uncertain of traditional etiquette, you are welcome to ask the Master of Ceremonies, Arena Director, or Head Singer.
The Seven Arrows PowWow is a non-profit event. Participants are encouraged to honor the talents of the performers by dropping money onto the blanket, buying raffle tickets or making a donation to the event. The event begins at 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday the 11th, or 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday the 12th in the Student Union Grand Ballroom. The cost to attend is $2 with free parking located in the garage only. The organization is still looking for volunteers to help out over the weekend. For more information contact Hailey Wilson, INC President, at hlw22@hotmail.com. In addition, check out the Intertribal Native Council’s Myspace at http://www.myspace.com/bsu_inc to get a glimpse of their many events throughout the year.
LISA HAMMAN
Arbiter Journalist
