What is a Powwow?

  • Published
  • By Kirby R. Locklear
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  To some Native peoples of northeastern North America, a 'Powwow' was originally a man with special abilities to cure or offer advice from the spirit world. Eliot's Natick Dictionary translation of word 'pauwau' was recorded as "a wizard, witch, magician, etc.", but this is not an accurate translation. 

Powwows, as individuals, were revered for their knowledge; the Narragansett word for "a wise speaker" is 'taupowaw'. Powwows were needed to help drive away sickness, ensure success in battle, interpret dreams, or to help individuals or tribes in other ways. Prayers, singing, dancing and drumming were all used by powwows in those ceremonies; and wherever Native American people gathered there was feasting, socializing and trading, so the gatherings themselves came to be called Powwows. 

All are welcome at Powwows. At times there may be an entry fee, and you will often find a wide variety of Native American crafts, trade goods and food for sale. One may see demonstrations and story telling as well. It's a great place for the entire family to spend the day. Drugs and alcohol are not permitted and pets must be on a leash at all times. 

The spiritual center of a Powwow is the circle, a sacred place to be respected and honored, and is blessed by a spiritual leader. The circle is entered only from the East (where there is an opening) and dancers travel in the same direction as the sun. 

The singing is a gift and praise to the Creator; and the drum is the heartbeat of the People. The singers and drummers together are called the drum. 

Ceremonies start with a "Grand Entry" of the dancers to pay respects to the Creator and to greet one another. Honoring songs, and dances for veterans and the ancestors follow. Those present will be asked to stand and remove their hat for these ceremonies. Please don't take photos or videos if asked not to do so; and please don't touch the clothing or personal belongings of anyone in Native American dress -- much of what is worn is sacred, expensive and/or irreplaceable. But do feel free to ask to take individual pictures, or to ask about a particular item that someone is wearing. Most Native People will be pleased to assist if they're asked first. 

There will be many types of dances at the Powwow. When the 'Intertribal Dance' is announced, everyone will be invited to participate. Proceed to the East opening of the circle and join in -- an Intertribal Dance is easy to learn and fun to do.
It's Powwow season now! The Thunderbird Intertribal Council in conjunction with the 96th Air Base Wing will host this year's 21st Annual Thunderbird Intertribal Powwow and Children's Day Nov. 7 to 9. The event promises to be filled with music and dance and fun for the whole family. Children's Day will be educational and expects to draw more than 3,000 local area teachers and students. For more information, contact Kirby Locklear at 217-6103 or 863-5311.