Local students immersed in Indian culture
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In an effort to remember these traditional ceremonies and pay tribute to Native Americans in modern life, intertribal powwows are organized across the country.
The casual observer of a powwow might see the power and endurance of an athletic event, or the agility and beauty of a ballet, or the color display of fireworks. For Indians, the powwow holds them together as tribal people.
Several classes of area students had the opportunity to get up close to a powwow by attending the Tullahoma Intertribal Powwow, sponsored by South Jackson Civic Center. Students from Hickory Creek, Morrison and Centertown attended the special day set aside for educational purposes.
Songs, dances and demonstrations performed by Native Americans from across the United States were included in the program. Attendees enjoyed an opening ceremony presenting the nation’s colors, and recognizing veterans and military members. Part of each opening ceremony includes songs that honor the American flag. Native Americans have great reverence for the flag because it represents the land and the traditions of the culture and family. It symbolizes the resting place of their forefathers. A closing ceremony retires the colors at the end of each day.
More than 20 artists and groups gave demonstrations on beaded jewelry making, rug weaving, wood carving, sand art, herbal medicines, drum making and pottery making, just to name a few.
Teachers took the unique educational opportunity to introduce a new cultural experience to their students, who excitedly watched the dance demonstrations and, along with their teachers, even got to participate in a dance ceremony.
They particularly enjoyed the performance of 14-year-old Kate Jolly from Madison, Ala., doing an authentic fancy shawl dance. Shawl dancers do spins, intricate footwork and make use of ribbons and fringes on their dance clothes to emphasize a fast-paced style of dancing.
Centertown student Lindsey Basham said, “I loved to see the Indians dance. Their costumes were all so beautiful and colorful.”
A surprise treat for students was the chance to meet the young actress whose voice was used in the “Pocahontas” movie. She described her part in the movie and signed autographs for visitors.
“I had a great time at the powwow, and it was very fun watching the Indians dance. It was so awesome seeing the lady that played Pocahontas. I had a very wonderful time,” said 10-year-old Courtney Few.