Summer is traditionally a time of lazy days, long nights, and weekend gatherings. It is also be a time of fairs and festivals. While many festivals are celebrations of the season, there are also those that celebrate cultures.
If your looking for a cultural celebration as an opportunity to learn about different cultures and traditions a Pow-Wow might be for you. The Native American population celebrate their cultural identity through a Pow-Wow. San Diego county is fortunate to have a has a rich Native American history.
The Department of Indian Affairs estimates there are 1.9 million American Indians and Alaska Natives and there are 562 federally recognized tribes in the United States. A federally recognized tribe means the tribe has government-to-government relationship with the United States, with the responsibilities, powers and limitations that designation carries. The following map shows percent of the total population that is of Native American ancestry (based on information from the US Census, 2007).
From U.S. Census Data (2007)
Native American cultures have struggled with preserving their culture and traditions for many generations. By staging Pow-wows the tribes seek to continue customs and educate youth of tribal history. The exact origin of the Pow-wow is in unclear. Some speculations state that the Pow-wow are rooted in medicine man rituals. Others claim that a Algonquin word “pauau” was mispronounced and misinterpreted to mean all Native American gatherings. Whatever the origins, throughout the United States Native American many tribes stage Pow-wows.
While the origin of the Pow-wow is a mystery but the purpose remains the clear, it is an opportunity to meet dance, sing, socialize and honor the Native American culture. A Pow-wow can vary in length from one day for several hours to three days. Typically the Pow-wow is a series of large circles; the center circle is dance arena. Tribal customs and traditions vary by region, Pow-wows allow the tribes to share their traditions.
Before the Pow-wow begins the arena is blessed. The process begins with the burning of a “smudge stick” which is made of dried sage bound together by a string. The dried sage burns slowly and generates a smoke trail. The smoke is believed to have purifying effect, cleansing the arena or if it is waved around a person that person. While one man carries the smudge stick another man flows him sprinkling tobacco on the ground. It is believed that the tobacco, will carry desires, hopes and prayers to the Creator. A few words were said by a member of the Native American community to the crowd. Once the arena has been blessed the Pow-wow can begin.
Drum used at Pow-wow (photo by Maria Menell Jun. 09)
A critical element that makes the Pow-wow unique is the musical element. The Native American drumming sets the rhythm of the event. The drums can be specific to the tribes. The drum is central to the event and a place of honor. The drum beats are not written, they are learned and passed on. The singing that sometimes accompany the drum music is not written either instead taught form generation to generation. The are songs can be prayers or stories and are meaningful to the family.
Male Native American regalia (photo by Maria Mendell Jun 09)
The dancers wear traditional regalia from their tribe. The regalia can be custom- made, sometimes taking months to craft. The regalia is a personal expression of the dancer. Observers should note the the regalia should never be referred to as a costume. The word costume is used to denote an actor or performer for a role, since the regalia is a reflection of the wearer it is an integral part of their persona and not part of a masquerade.
San Diego County is fortunate to have several tribes with upcoming Pow-wows. In June the San Luis Rey Band of Luiseño Indians has a Pow-wow scheduled for the 13-14 at Mission San Luis Ray in Oceanside. On this weekend the otherwise peaceful Mission is transformed serving as the backdrop for this lively event.
The City of Imperal Beach will host, Pow-wow by the Sea, Saturday, June 20, 2009 to Sunday, June 21, 2009
Also in North County San Diego, Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians has a Pow-wow scheduled for July 3-5.
If planning to attend one of these events, please keep the following hints in mind. There are parts of the ceremony that are sacred and, as such, photography may be prohibited during these parts of the ceremony. Also it is important not cross the tribal circle after it has been blessed. Also there are no alcohol or drugs near the tribal circle. Otherwise, all are encouraged to enjoy the event.
A Pow-wow is an good opportunity to view the past through a window that offers a glimpse at living history.
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