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2018 POWWOW GUIDE & CALENDAR

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NATIVE OKLAHOMA | APRIL 20182018 POWWOW GUIDE & CALENDAR

NATIVE OKLAHOMA | APRIL 2018

SaturdayApril 21, 2018

Otoe-MissouriaCultural Building

Otoe-Missouria EncampmentBenefit

Gourd Dance: 2pmSupper: 5:30pmIntertribal: 7pm For More Information:

Donnie Childs 405.258.8342

Head Gourd JIm Grant

Mike GawhegaHead Singer

Oliver LittlecookEmcee

Jim HopperHead Man

Carolyn KauleyHead Lady

EncampmentCommittee

ArenaDirectors

Honoring our Buffalo Clan

Be TraditionalProtect Mother Earth

Bring Your Real Dishes for Dinner

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April Encampment Benefit.pdf 1 3/21/18 9:31 PM

NATIVE OKLAHOMA | APRIL 2018 3

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CONTENTSNAT IVE OKLAHOMA

PO BOX 411Tahlequah, OK 74465918-708-5838 or [email protected]

PUBLISHERS:Adam Proctor | Cherokee/Shawnee/CreekLisa Hicks Snell | Cherokee

EDITOR:Lisa Hicks Snell | Cherokee

ADVERTISING MANAGER:Adam Proctor | Cherokee/Shawnee/Creek

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:Dana Attocknie |ComancheLenzy Krehbiel-Burton | CherokeeLisa Hicks Snell |Cherokee

Native Oklahoma is a monthly publication produced in partnership with the Native American Times, www.nativetimes.com. Content © Native Oklahoma Magazine.

For more information or to advertise, please call Adam Proctor at 918-409-7252 or Lisa Snell at 918-708-5838. You may also email [email protected] or [email protected].

Native Oklahoma is available for FREE at tribal and Oklahoma welcome centers; gift shops; hotels; travel plazas; and online at www.nativeoklahoma.us. For a listing of all locations, please visit us online.

Like Us! Facebook.com/NativeOklahomaFollow @nativeoklahoma on Twitter

www.nativeoklahoma.uswww.nativetimes.com

Please recycle or share this magazine

6 PEOPLE: Miss Oklahoma: Bridging the great American Culture divide In Memoriam: Sammy “Tone-Kei” White, the voice of powwow

10 ENTERTAINMENT & EVENTS: Two Native film events in April

Featured Reading: Blood Moon by John Sedgwick

13 2018 POWWOW GUIDE Powwow 101 Calendar Powwow Etiquette

32 TRIBAL DIRECTORY

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Aubree Lane Wensman is the current Intertribal Indian Club of Tulsa (IICOT) Princess for 2017-2018. She is 16-years-old and from Sperry, Oklahoma. Her tribes are Bird Creek Shawnee and Red Lake Ojibwe.

Aubree’s Shawnee name is Nekana’comsi and she is waterbird clan. Her name means the lead bird when they fly in the vee formation – a leader. Aubree is the daughter of Eric and Terri Wensman. She has two older sisters, Sumer and Hanna Wensman. Her paternal grandparents are the late Norma

Sue and Bob Quinton of Sperry and the late Al Wensman of Red Lake, MN. Her maternal grandparents are Chester and Billie Tomlinson of Tulsa.

She enjoys playing soccer, running, dancing, reading, hanging out with her friends, her horses, and her two dogs. She has been a jingle dancer since she was four and enjoys traveling to powwows and meeting new people across the country. Aubree speaks Shawnee and is very involved in the Shawnee Language program. She is also fluent in French.

ABOUT OUR COVER: Intertribal Indian Club of Tulsa 2017-2018 Princess

AUBREE LANE WENSMAN

Aubree Lane Wensman

NATIVE OKLAHOMA | APRIL 20186

Bridging the great American cultural divideTwo Chickasaw women driven to share tribal story

Dana Lance | chickasaw nation

The lives of two Chickasaw women may be separated by 84 years but they share an identical mission – bridging America’s cultural divide.

One wore buckskin and moccasins; the other wears sequins and a tiara.

Mary Thompson Fisher, better known by her stage name “Te Ata,” dedicated her life’s work to sharing Native American customs and heritage throughout the world beginning in the early 20th century.

Triana Browne, 2017 Miss Oklahoma, is emulating Te Ata’s journey during her reign. Through her platform, “Bridging the Great Cultural Divide,” Miss Browne shares Chickasaw culture and heritage with fellow Oklahomans and throughout the United States.

While competing for the title of Miss America last fall, Browne seized on the opportunity to share her Native culture with a new audience.

She wore an ensemble created by several elite Native American artists during the traditional Miss America “Show Us Your Shoes” parade, conducted along the boardwalk in Atlantic City, New Jersey, in September.

Browne recalled the parade as “one of the most memorable experiences within the Miss America competition weeks.”

“It was really emotional for me. This is the first time a Miss Oklahoma was able to represent a huge part of what Oklahoma is.”

Contestants typically wear ensembles representing an aspect of their home

triana Browne, Miss oklahoma 2017, shares her chickasaw cultural and heritage with fellow Oklahomans and throughout the United States through her platform, “Bridging the Great cultural Divide.” | Marcy Gray

NATIVE OKLAHOMA | APRIL 2018 7

Bridging the great American cultural dividestate, such as a state flower or a school.

She said that being able to represent such an important part of who she is in front of 100,000 people was an “overwhelming feeling.”

“I was shedding a few tears because my platform, “Bridging The Great Cultural Divide,” is all about talking about culture and getting people to want to ask questions.”

“(During the parade) people were coming up to me saying, ‘who do you represent’ and ‘what is this representing’ and I was able to talk about the Chickasaw Nation.”

“My platform was being laid out right then and there. It was everything I ever dreamed of.”

Browne said more than 100,000 people watched the New Jersey parade, and her message and photos were shared nationwide through social media.

Chickasaw citizens who live throughout the United States would share positive comments such as ‘this is amazing’ or share thoughts about the contemporary view of the ensemble, or “Miss Oklahoma representing something that is bigger than herself.”

Te Ata’s Legacy

Much like Te Ata, Browne spends time at schools telling the Chickasaw story, sometimes speaking to as many as 1,000 students in one day.

“That’s 1,000 children I am talking to about the Chickasaw Nation or sharing my parade outfit. Once they see all the glamour of the outfit they start asking questions like ‘Wow –

what does this mean?”

Te Ata spent her 60-plus-year career educating while entertaining audiences around the globe about Native American culture. Royalty, heads of state and presidents, as well as students, were among her audience.

Born in 1895, Thompson adopted the stage name “Te Ata” as she chased her dream of Broadway. Overcoming cultural barriers, she discovered fulfillment by embracing her true identity.

She presented a unique one woman show of American Indian heritage and culture to audiences across the United States, Canada and Europe, at a time when Native American culture was being actively suppressed by the federal government.

One indication of the influential nature of her performances is the fact that Te Ata performed at the first State Dinner of Franklin Roosevelt’s presidency April 22, 1933. As a close friend of Eleanor Roosevelt, Te Ata was a guest at the dinner honoring British Prime Minister Ramsey MacDonald. After dinner, Te Ata changed from her evening gown into a white buckskin dress for the performance.

This was a significant highlight of a career which earned the Chickasaw performer international fame.

“It’s amazing to see how similar we think about making a difference. Because if you really think about it, she is about cultural compassion,” Miss Browne said of Te Ata. “By educating others you bring people together.”

“I am really honored to be compared with someone who is an inspiration to all people. She is someone I

look toward because she is an inspiration.”

“By looking at Te Ata and seeing her life story, and seeing everything she went through and how she turned it all around and used it as a way to really make a big impact on Oklahoma and the Nation.”

“It’s something I really strive to be like. I hope that I am on the same track with my platform Bridging the Great Cultural Divide. That is exactly what I want to do.”

Te Ata’s Story Now Available on DVD

Chickasaw Productions’ critically acclaimed “TE ATA,” is now available on DVD and Blu-ray.

Based on the inspiring true story of her life, the film focuses on the early career of the famed Chickasaw storyteller.

“TE ATA” won the Best Picture and Audience Choice - Feature awards at the Orlando Film Festival, Audience Choice - Best Drama at Gallup Film Festival, and Audience Choice Award - Narrative Feature at Heartland Film Festival, among other film festival honors.

Special Features included on the “TE ATA” DVD and Blu-ray release include: Behind-the-scenes footage, “Toward the Rising Sun” music video and the original trailer.

For more information visit TeAtaMovie.com.

A documentary based on Te Ata’s life, “Bearer of the Morning- The Life of Te Ata Thompson Fisher,” is also now available on DVD.

NATIVE OKLAHOMA | APRIL 20188

Samuel Franklin White Sr, is the name on the birth certificate, but to the people who knew and loved him, he was Sammy or “Tone-Kei” (which means coming out of the water). Tone-Kei walked on into another world February 13, 2018 to meet his wife Bunny White, two of his children Frank Yellowman White and Debra Emkoyetie Starr; siblings George, Lee, Elmer and Evelyn; and grandson James Lee. He is survived by his beloved children; Derek, Kevin and Sammy; grandchildren Kathryn and Simean; and his great grandchildren, Tone-Eei, Keenai Daniel and Maddlynn, who he surrounded himself by.

Tone-kei was born on April 5, 1930, in Anadarko to Boyd H. and Emkoyetie (Coco) White. He attended and graduated from Chilocco Indian School near Ponca City. He then attended Central State University in Edmond.

He met Vinita A. Jackson and they married in 1950. He served the country proudly with the U.S. marine Corps during Korean conflict. Tone-kei was a citizen of the Kiowa tribe.

Tone-Kei always said he was a storyteller because he wanted the beautiful tribal tales to live forever. He made his life a journey of telling the stories to everyone who would listen. He did not have to go far to be asked, because everyone who met him wanted to hear every word he said. He had a charm and grace about him and he made everyone feel special. Most people who met him have a personal story of an interaction with him that left an indelible mark in their lives. He made people feel good. He also was profound with humor. He is reknown for how silly, lighthearted and quick-witted he was. He just made people

In Memoriam

NATIVE OKLAHOMA | APRIL 2018 9

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smile. Tone-Kei wanted to lift people up everywhere he went, and he went far.

Tone-Kei was an advocate for people his entire life. He lobbied for his people as an activist, column writer, radio host and his own television show. In 2011, Tone-Kei had his soul revealing biography written to tell the world that Indians are indigenous people and sovereign nations that “must be visible members.” In it he also shared his folktales, and heart stories of a life well lived.

The powwow world was Tone-Kei’s world. He was the gatherer of nations. He was in the center of many circles of friends asking Indians to “never separate from each other and their cultures.” He emceed powwows up into his last years leading the laughs, dances and songs.

To many who looked up to him as an inspirational Indian elder, a person who will always be celebrated as the voice for his people, they will miss his vibrancy for life, but his work will not be forgotten. It will be remembered through his children and for all who called him Grandpa.

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“You, all of you, are a very special part of a great universal plan, and you are a soul living on Mother Earth and in your body you are here to perform a certain task that only you can do. To illustrate more of what I am trying to say; if I took one cup of water from the ocean, all the water of the world would have to move over to fill a gap. You are important; the world would not be the same without you. There is no goodbye in Kiowa. Aho! I have spoken!

– Tone-Kei

NATIVE OKLAHOMA | APRIL 201810

 

  

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Like everything today, funeral costs are rising.  Many Tribes offer final expense benefits to all Tribal Members but are left with the administrative burden of tracking and processing claims for survivors. 

Dearborn National’s Tribal Final Expense Plan has partnered with Chimento Insurance to provide the ability to budget final expense costs as well as transfer the claim processing to the professionals. 

Plan Benefits:  $10,000* Death Benefit for each Tribal Member over 6 months old.  Birth to Six weeks ‐     $500 Benefit Six Weeks – 6 months  $1,000 Benefit  *$20,000 Benefit is optional 

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Contact Sue Chimento at (918) 291‐1406 or email us at [email protected] to provide a proposal. 

 

 

aPriL 19: circLe cineMa’s natiVe sPotLiGht FiLM series

The “100 Years” documentary is the David vs. Goliath story of Elouise Cobell, a petite, Native American warrior who filed the largest class action lawsuit ever filed against the United States government and WON a $3.4 billion settlement for 300,000 Native Americans whose mineral-rich lands were mismanaged by the Department of the Interior.

When Elouise Cobell, a member of the Blackfeet Nation from Montana, started asking questions about missing money from government managed Indian trust accounts, she never imagined that one day she would be taking on the world’s most powerful government. But what she discovered as the treasurer of her tribe was a trail of fraud and corruption leading all the way from Montana to Washington DC. “100 Years” is the story of her 30-year fight for justice. Her unrelenting spirit never quit. This is the compelling true story of how she prevailed and made history.

Reception 6:00pm - 6:45pm; Panel discussion following film with director/producer Melinda Janko, Attorney Mike McBride III, JD Colbert, Judge Martha Rupp Carter, and moderated by Linda Sacks. Special introduction from attorney James R. Hicks. Film at 7pm.

More Information, visit www.circlecinema.com

NATIVE OKLAHOMA | APRIL 2018 11

- FEATURED READING -

BLooD MoonBY JOHN SEDGWICK

Blood Moon is the story of the century-long blood feud between two rival Cherokee chiefs from the early years of the United States through the infamous Trail of Tears and into the Civil War. While little remembered today, their mutual hatred shaped the tragic history of the tribe.

In this epic saga, John Sedgwick brings to life an untold chapter of American history through the relationship between one chief called The Ridge, a fearsome warrior who spoke no English but whose exploits on the battlefield were legendary, and John Ross, who was the Cherokees’ primary chief for nearly forty years, yet displayed the Scottish side of his mixed-blood heritage and spoke not a word of Cherokee. To protect their sacred landholdings from American encroachment, these two men negotiated with almost every American president of the time. At first friends and allies, they broke on the subject of Removal, breeding an enmity that lead to a bloody civil war within Cherokee Nation that culminated in the two factions battling each other in the War Between the States.

Blood Moon paints a portrait of these two inspirational leaders who worked together to lift their people to the height of culture and learning as the most civilized tribe in the nation, and then drop them to the depths of ruin and despair as they turned against each other. Theirs is a story of land, pride, honor, and loss that forms much of the country’s mythic past today.

Available in hardcover from Simon and Schuster.

– www.simonandschuster.com

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NATIVE OKLAHOMA | APRIL 201812

aMerican inDian chaMBer oF coMMerce MeetinGs:

north centraL - This chapter meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month. For more information, contact President Lavonda Youngman at [email protected]

okLahoMa city - This chapter meets the 2nd Wednesday of the month 11:30a-1p at Twin Hills Golf & Country Club, 3401 NE 36 Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73121, OKC. For more information, contact President Brian Wall at [email protected]

tULsa - This chapter meets the 3rd Thursday of the month at Indian Health Care Center, 550 S. Peoria Ave, Tulsa. For more information contact President Brandon Caruso at [email protected]

Greater tULsa inDian aFFairs coMMission MeetinGs:

The Greater Tulsa Area Indian Affairs Commission meetings are held at 6 p.m. on the third Tuesday of the month in City Hall, 175 East 2nd Street, 2nd Floor Council Chambers, Tulsa. Meetings are open to the public.

The Greater Tulsa Area Indian Affairs Commission’s primary mission is the advancement of American Indian culture and heritage and/or the provision of services to American Indians.

More information at www.cityoftulsa.org/government/authorities-boards-and-commissions/

APRIL 5-7: NATIVE CROSSROADS FILM FESTIVAL

For three days, film lovers will enjoy soaring strings, pounding drums, screaming guitars and more during the Sixth Annual Native Crossroads Film Festival.

All films, speakers and panels are complimentary and open to the public.

This year’s theme is “Rhythms,” and showcases feature films, music videos, documentaries, animations and short films that crank up the volume on the diverse soundtracks of Native America. These films celebrate pioneers of rock like guitarist Jesse Ed Davis; Indigenous hip-hop from urban Los Angeles to Sámi country in Scandinavia; love songs on cedar flutes and classical violins and the rhythms of nature that are a vital part of life in Indigenous communities around the world. This year’s films emphasize the significant roles that music plays in Native culture, from preserving traditions to rallying voices for change.

The festival will offer audiences the chance to see three days’ worth of the most innovative works in Indigenous cinema. Filmmakers, scholars and tribal community representatives will explore the “Rhythms” that drive the visual, political and cultural urgency of music in film.

Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum, 2401 Chautauqua Ave., Norman. www.nativecrossroads.org

NATIVE OKLAHOMA | APRIL 2018 13

Otoe Encampment | Photo by Lester Haragara

POWWOW GUIDE

NATIVE OKLAHOMA | APRIL 201814

Powwow dancers attempt to catch the judges’ eyes with personal style, footwork falling on the beat of the music, and well-made dance attire. A dancer can be disqualified if they dance off beat, drop a part of their clothing during the performance, or fail to stop with both feet on the ground when the last beat of the drum sounds. A good dancer combines traditional aspects with personal attitude and individuality.

MEN’S TRADITIONAL DANCE

Men’s Traditional dancers tell a story with their movements - one of hunting, tracking, fighting, or imitating the courtship dances of prairie birds. The dancers’ feet stay close to the ground while their heads and upper bodies actively play out their story line. This dance and the associated dance dress, or regalia, originated with 19th century warrior society members who danced to recount their war deeds and to tell stories.

MEN’S FANCY DANCE

Taking basic steps and regalia from the

Traditional dance, Fancy Dancers dress is noted for the colorful beadwork, feathers, ribbons, and an additional bustle worn at the back of the neck - accentuating each of the dancer’s athletic movements. The best Fancy Dancers are able to make the complex movements of their body and regalia fall on beat with the drum as well as dazzle your eyes.

MEN’S GRASS DANCE

Marked by quick and fluid movements, the Grass Dance is more active than the Men’s Traditional dance. Grass Dancers move by shaking their shoulders, swaying their torsos from the hip, and darting suddenly to change their direction. They do not wear a bustle, but rather a shirt and pants heavily fringed with ribbon, yarn or cloth moving as an extension of the dancer’s body, reminiscent of prairie grass swaying in the wind. Some Grass Dancers use trick steps that give the appearance that the dancer is off balance, only to gracefully recover just in time.

WOMEN’S FANCY ShAWL DANCE

Fancy Shawl dancers are recognized by their energetic dance style, in which they seem to float around the arena, their shawls outstretched like beautiful wings. Dancers create this illusion by moving around the arena on their toes, kicking high and twirling into the air. This dance is extremely athletic and strenuous, and is usually danced by girls and young women. The dancers keep up with the fast pace of the song while retaining a gentle elegance, using their beautifully decorated fringed shawls to accentuate every movement.

WOMEN’S TRADITIONAL DANCE

The Women’s Traditional dance is a powerful and personal dance of expression. These dancers move with extreme grace and subtlety, keeping their feet close to the ground and either moving slowly forward or bobbing slightly with the beat of the drum. These simple steps have their origin in older times when women did not dance in the arena, but stood outside the circle and kept

POWWOW 101

NATIVE OKLAHOMA | APRIL 2018 15

time with their feet. Dancers wear or carry shawls, a sign of modesty and respect, and long traditional buckskin or cloth dresses.

WOMEN’S JINGLE DRESS DANCE

The most musical of the powwow dances, the Jingle Dress competition is gracefully accompanied by the tinkling sound of the jingle dress in motion. These dancers are distinctive in their dresses covered by rows of triangular metal cones. The dance has no set choreography, and dancers use a variety of rocking, stepping and hopping motions to make the jingles on their dresses chime along with the beat of the drum. Although this dance originated in Northern Minnesota among the Anishinabe people, it has become tremendously popular among women dancers of all ages on the Northern Plains.

TINY TOTS DANCE

When the announcer calls for the Tiny Tots dance, a number of young children fill the arena; dancing, wiggling and jumping along to the beat of the drum. The Tiny Tots dance includes young children, ages 6 and under, who are just learning to dance - encouraging them to join in with powwow activities. The inclusion of youngsters in the powwow dances ensures that the next generation carries on the powwow tradition - and work to become the champion powwow dancers of tomorrow.

SOCIAL DANCES

In addition to competition dances and specials, a number of social dances fill the powwow schedule. Among these are the intertribal and round dances, that include all dance categories, ages and genders. Powwow visitors should feel free to join in these dances upon invitation from the Emcee.

ThE DRUM

It is hard to imagine a powwow without a drum. It is the drum that makes the dancers want to move, and the better the drum, the more the dancers feel the excitement of the performance. The drum is a term used to refer to both the instrument and the group of people sitting at the drum to play and sing. One or more lead singers, who start the songs, may have over one hundred songs in the personal repertoire. The songs sung at powwow are varied and endless in number: some are traditional and passed down through history, others are contemporary and created to speak to current concerns and interests. Some of the songs are sung in their traditional tribal language, which aides to keeping the languages alive and vital for the younger generation. Many of the songs are sung in vocables (rhythmically sung syllables) such as “hey,” “yah” or “lay.” The use of vocables makes the songs easier for singers and dancers of all tribes to remember. There are typically a number of drum groups at each powwow, and they trade off the playing duties for each song.

NATIVE OKLAHOMA | APRIL 201816

POWWOW CALENDAR*Powwow dates, times and locations are subject to change. Please call ahead or check online in advance before making travel plans.

aPriL 7

aMerican inDian yoUth LeaDershiP sPrinG Powwow: McCurtain County Sports Complex, 108 W 5th St, Broken Bow.

The American Indian Youth Leadership Spring Powwow is an annual celebration of Native American culture. Head to this event to experience traditional storytelling, music and art. This is the

19th year the community will share American Indian heritage with others at this exciting event. Youth art is on display and special demonstrations of gourd dancing and stick ball playing will be presented. Come experience the beauty of American Indian culture at this free event. Phone: 580-584-3365.

okLahoMa city UniVersity sPrinG Powwow: Henry J. Freede Wellness CenterNW 27th and Florida Street, Oklahoma City. Gourd Dance — 2pm. Dinner — 5pm. Gourd Dance — 6pm. Grand Entry — 7pm.

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NATIVE OKLAHOMA | APRIL 2018 17

Thursday Friday7am: Flag Raising9am: Rations7pm: Evening Program Princess Crowning Introduction Specials

7am: Flag Raising9am: Rations2pm: Gourd Dancing5:30pm: Supper Break7pm: Grand Entry

Saturday7am: Flag Raising9am: Rations10am: Kids Games Horse Shoes2pm: Gourd Dancing5:30pm: Supper Break7pm: Grand Entry

Sunday7am: Flag Raising9am: Rations10am: Church Service2pm: Gourd Dancing5:30pm: Supper Break7pm: Grand Entry

For more info: 405.258.8342

July 19-222018

Red RockOK

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2018_Otoe-Missouria_Encampment_Native_OK.pdf 1 3/20/18 8:08 PM

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Uco sPrinG Powwow: Hamilton Field House, University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond. All are welcome at the 44th Annual UCO Spring Powwow. Every year the powwow grows, offering an opportunity to share our culture with the community through dancing, vendors and traditional Native foods. Phone: 405-974-3588.

aPriL 14

inDiGenoUs PeoPLes Day BeneFit Powwow: 2pm-11pm, Watchetaker Hall, Lawton. Gourd dancing begins at 2pm. Powwow Specials from 6pm-11pm. Raffles, 50/50, cake walk and concession. 580-699-6556.

oU aisa sPrinG contest Powwow: Lloyd Noble Center: 2900 S. Jenkins, Norman. Phone: 580-

NATIVE OKLAHOMA | APRIL 201818

351-4993. Email: [email protected]

Frontier inDian eDUcation sPrinG yoUth Powwow: Frontier Gymnasium, 17750 Valley Road, Red Rock. 580-723-4360 EXT 2814

aPriL 21

nsU Powwow: Northeastern State University, 600 N Grand, Tahlequah. Held the last day of the university’s annual Symposium on the American Indian, the NSU powwow features traditional and fancy dancing. Phone: 918-444-4351.

honor Powwow For Miss inDian okLahoMa: Sultan Park, Walters. Gourd dancing begins at 1pm, Scalp Dance at 4pm. Grand Entry at 7pm. Contest powwow - all tribal and organization princesses welcome! 580-351-4993

okLahoMa city Powwow cLUB BeneFit Dance: 2pm-11pm at Indian Hills Powwow Grounds, 9300 N. Sooner Rd., Oklahoma City. 2nd Annual Oklahoma City Pow Wow Club Spring Benefit Pow Wow and Indian Taco Sale at Indian Hills. More chair space, contests, and Intertribals. Celebrate your Indian Heritage at Oklahoma’s oldest Intertribal Native American Heritage Organization - established 1950. Phone: 405-826-8189.

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restorinG harMony Powwow: Westside YMCA, 5400 S Olympia Ave, Tulsa. Experience the spirit of an ancient tradition at the 2015 Restoring Harmony Powwow at Tulsa’s Westside YMCA. This event begins with stickball games that will take you back in time. Continue with an awareness hike and a showing of the film “Bully.” In the afternoon, enjoy traditional gourd dancing before the sun sets and the grand entry parade begins.

You’ll probably want to take something home for yourself to remember this sacred event. The event will feature vendors for shopping. Browse booths boasting American Indian items like jewelry and

blankets to find the perfect accessory or home furnishing. This free event is sure to be fun for the whole family. Phone: 918-382-2205

May 11-12

coManche LittLe Ponies annUaL ceLeBration: Comanche County Fairgrounds Expo Center, 920 S. Sheridan Rd., Lawton. Phone: 580-583-5279.

May 18-19

haskeLL inDian nations UniVersity GraDUation Powwow: 155 Indian Ave., Lawrence, Kansas. 785-749-8454

May 19

okLahoMa FeDeration oF inDian woMen honor Powwow: Choctaw Event Center, 4216 S. HWY 69/75, Durant. Join us as we honor our lovely outgoing Miss Indian Oklahoma and Jr Miss Indian Oklahoma. Both our titleholders have done an outstanding job representing the organization, Oklahoma, their tribes, & their families. We will also be introducing the newly crowned 2016 Miss & Jr Miss Indian Oklahoma. Gourd Dancing begins at 1 p.m., Grand Entry at 7pm..For more information, call Debbie Hill @ 918-951-1336 or email [email protected]

JUne 8-10

reD earth natiVe aMerican cULtUraL FestiVaL: Cox Convention Center, 1 Myriad Gardens, Oklahoma City. Head to Oklahoma City’s Red Earth Festival this June and witness as more than 1,000 American Indian artists and dancers from throughout North America gather to celebrate the richness and diversity of their heritage with the world. For three exciting days, Oklahoma City will be at the center of Native American art and culture as more than 30,000 people gather to celebrate.

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When attending a powwow, especially if you are unfamiliar with the setting, it helps to be very observant. While different powwows will have much in common, there may be some variance in protocol. Watch what other attendees are doing. Stand when they stand. Sit when they sit. The emcee, or master of ceremonies, will make announcements and give instructions to keep everything going smoothly.

Arena benches are set up for dancers and special honorees around the perimeter of the dance circle. If a seat has a blanket on it, it is reserved.

Guests are welcome and encouraged to bring their own chairs when the powwow is held outdoors. Be conscious of where you place your chair. Do not sit in sections reserved for elders or dancers and take care not to block the view of others.

When special songs are played, everyone stands quietly in respect. Examples are during Grand Entry, Flag Songs, Veteran Songs, Memorial Songs and Prayer Songs. The emcee will announce these songs and indicate if or when dancers may join the song.

Recordings are not allowed without the permission of the Master of Ceremonies and the Lead Singer.

Only those invited by the Lead Singer may sit at the Drum. Do not touch the Drum unless given permission.

Ask a dancer’s permission before taking a photograph. You

may also ask the emcee if it is allowed to photograph or record the dancing. Flash photography may be distracting to contest dancers and is sometimes not allowed. Ask before using a flash.

Be respectful of regalia. Some of the pieces or jewelry may be family heirlooms. If a dancer drops a piece of their regalia or a piece comes loose, let them or the arena director know. Do not pick it up yourself.

Do not touch or handle an eagle feather. If one has fallen, let the dancer or a powwow staff member know.

The dance circle is sacred. Do not walk across the circle and do not permit children to run in or around the circle. Pets are not allowed in the dance arena.

Visitors may participate in some social and intertribal dances. The emcee will announce these dances.

Give-aways are breaks between songs and dances when the powwow host group gives gifts to the head staff and others it wishes to honor. Be patient. Give-aways can take up a bit of time.

Blanket dances are introduced to raise money for the head drum group. When the blanket is placed on the ground or floor, everyone is welcome to enter the circle. It’s customary to enter from the main entry and walk the direction of the established movement.

Powwow EtiquetteEveryone stands for the colorguard and the presenting of flags.

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The Red Earth Festival is an exciting event featuring representatives from over 100 tribes. Over the years, Red Earth has matured into one of the most respected visual and performing arts events of its type, setting the standard for many of today’s Indian art shows. At Red Earth, guests can sample the work of some of the nation’s most celebrated artists, with opportunities to purchase contemporary and traditional examples of beadwork, basketry, jewelry, pottery, sculpture, paintings, graphics and cultural attire during the festival’s juried art show and market.

The dance competition at Red Earth is one of the rare occasions when dancers from America’s Northern and Southern tribes can be seen together in one venue. Red Earth dancers represent the elite of Native American dance, some of the most gifted and accomplished in the world. The masters, each in their own distinctive

tribal dress, exhibit their originality and skills in one of the most prestigious of all native dance competitions. Phone: 405-427-5228.

JUne 9

TINkER INTER-TRIBAL COUNCIL POwwOw: Joe Barnes Regional Park, 8700 E. Reno Ave., Midwest City. Join thousands as they gather at Midwest City’s Joe B. Barnes Regional Park to honor the veteran warriors from Oklahoma Native American tribes at the Tinker Inter-Tribal Council Powwow. Free and open to the public, this powwow is a great opportunity for your family to experience the vibrant and fascinating culture of the American Indian tribes that call Oklahoma home. Activities will include Native American traditional dance, singing, art, jewelry, and food. Come and witness a youth dancing exhibition and men’s fancy dancing, as well as women’s southern

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cloth and buckskin divisions. Phone: 405-734-1345.

INTER-TRIBAL ChILDREN’S POwwOw & FUN FEST: Ottawa Tribe Powwow Grounds, 11400 S 613 Rd, Miami. Bring the whole family out to the Inter-Tribal Children’s Powwow and Fun Fest in Miami for a day of activities and exhibitions of tribal dance. Educational and fun activities and games for kids begin with the fun fest at 12pm. Storytellers will tell traditional stories and there will be live entertainment throughout the day. All ages will enjoy browsing the craft booths offering a variety of handmade items at the Inter-Tribal Children’s Powwow and Fun Fest. Pick up a snack from one of the many food vendors, then watch gourd dancers and hoop dancers as they perform. Stick around for supper from 5pm to 7pm, and then witness the excitement of the grand entry, which begins at 7pm. A stomp dance will follow the day’s festivities, beginning at 11:30pm. Phone: 918-542-7232.

sUPernaw’s okLahoMa inDian sUPPLy

918-396-1713 [email protected]

213 east rogers Blvd., skiatookOpen at noon 6 days a week

Show at Supernaw’s Oklahoma Indian Supply where you can find all your beading, craft and Native regalia supplies.

NATIVE OKLAHOMA | APRIL 201822

JUne 15-17

iowa Powwow, iowa triBaL coMPLex: Bah-Kho-Je Powwow Grounds, Perkins. The Iowa Annual Powwow is a celebration of homecoming and fellowship amongst the Bahkhoje people. It is a way of renewing old friendships and building new ones. The powwow is a celebration of life. It is a full weekend of singing, social dancing, feasting and dance competitions with tribal citizens from across America attending. The powwow is organized by a designated committee whereas they begin planning many months beforehand to assure all plans and budget expenses are met. The weekend typically begins on a Friday evening starting out with a Grand Entry. This is the time when veterans, chiefs, royalty, and dancers make a grand entrance into the sacred arena. Flags are carried by veterans to honor our fallen, retired, and present veterans. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy a time of new experiences along with family and friends. Phone: 580-304-6731.

JUne 21-25

MVskoke nation FestiVaL: Claude Cox Omniplex, 2950 Warrior Rd., Okmulgee. Each June, thousands of people gather at the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Claude Cox Omniplex in the city of Okmulgee for a weekend filled with activities celebrating contemporary Muscogee life. This annual celebration includes cultural exhibitions, a golf tournament, concerts featuring local and national acts, arts and crafts, great food, a parade through historic downtown Okmulgee, senior citizen’s activities, children’s activities and many more festivities for the entire family to enjoy.

The Mvskoke Nation Festival began in 1974 as a celebration of Muscogee culture and heritage and has become a major family gathering for many Muscogee families. This year is the 41st anniversary of the festival. All activities are free and open to the public. This much-loved festival invites all people to experience the games, competitions

and festival events during the month of June. Be a part of the largest and longest running festival in Okmulgee County. Phone: 918-732-7995.

JUne 23

MiaMi nation triBaL Powwow: NEO College Arena, Miami. The Miami Nation Tribal Powwow is a celebration of Native American dance. This free event welcomes visitors from the surrounding area and beyond to witness as tribal members compete in various traditional dances. The Miami Nation Tribal Powwow features gourd dancing, a shell shaker contest, singers and powwow princesses. A grand entry and color guard presentation will be held, and food and merchandise vendors will be on hand. Phone: 918-541-1300.

JUne 22-24

tonkawa triBaL Powwow: Fort Oakland, Tonkawa. Come out and experience the Tonkawa Tribal Powwow, an annual tribal celebration featuring Native American dancing, contests, crafts, artwork and food. Dance styles will include straight, fancy, traditional, cloth and buckskin categories. Stick around for a traditional Tonkawa scalp dance during the festival and a Nez Perce memorial ceremony Saturday morning. This year’s event will also include sporting tournaments, a catfish tournament and a scout dance. Free camping, along with electric and water hookups, will be available. Phone: 580-628-2561.

Peoria Powwow, 60610 E 90 Rd, Miami. The annual Peoria Powwow in Miami is a grand festival of Native American culture and dance. This American Indian event features a wide range of contest dancing, including gourd dancing and straight dancing, as well as grass, traditional and fancy dancing. Other categories of dance will also include cloth, buckskin, jingle and fancy shawl. Come to the Peoria Powwow in Miami and join the Master of Ceremonies as he or she leads

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visitors throughout the festival’s various events.

A traditional round dance will open each session and all participants will be in full regalia. The highly anticipated stomp dance will be hosted on Friday and Saturday nights as well as Sunday afternoon. Attend the Peoria Powwow and enjoy singing and more. Browse through booths filled with American Indian arts and craft vendors, enjoy free camping throughout the event and satisfy your appetite for tasty treats with plenty of food concessions. Phone: 918-540-2535.

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Pawnee inDian Veterans Powwow: Park Lane and Memorial Road, Pawnee. The annual Pawnee Indian Veterans Powwow is a community event that honors veterans and celebrates American Indian culture. Enjoy powwow activities Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings and free overnight primitive camping on-site. This family event features Indian dance contests, heritage programs and more. Free rations will be given out to campers Saturday morning. Phone: 918-762-3621.

JULy 4-7

QUaPaw triBaL Powwow: 5681 S 630 Rd, Quapaw. Head to Quapaw this July to experience American Indian traditions with the Quapaw tribe. The tribe holds an annual celebration over the 4th of July weekend that includes dancing, contests, vendors and plenty of family fun. Come celebrate the culture and history of the Quapaw. Phone: 918-542-1853.

JULy 5-8

SAC & FOx NATION POwwOw: 920883 S State Hwy 99, Stroud. Come and experience this annual American Indian event featuring native dancing, singing, dance competitions, arts and crafts, a rodeo, food vendors, outdoor camping and much more. Enjoy the Sac & Fox Nation Celebration Open Rodeo at this annual powwow and witness traditional rodeo events such as bull riding, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, team roping, calf

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roping, steer wrestling and more. Toll Free: 800-259-3970.

JULy 7

annUaL saint kateri tekakwitha honor Dance: 4:30 p.m. at St. Gregory’s Abbey, 1900 W. MacArthur St., in Shawnee. Prior to the dance there will be a blessing and Mass at 3 p.m. followed by a pilgrimage to the Saint Kateri statue on campus. The dance honors young girls and young women. For more information contact Deacon Roy Callison, coordinator, American Indian Catholic Outreach for the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, (918) 822-3255, [email protected].

JULy 13-15

coManche hoMecoMinG Powwow: Sultan Park, 129 E Colorado St, Walters. Come see the tradition of the Comanche Tribe come to life before your eyes and enjoy a full weekend of American Indian activities and events at this year’s Comanche Homecoming Powwow in Walters. Grab a seat along the sidelines of the powwow grounds to see the amazing spectacle of traditional American Indian dancers in full regalia. Categories of dance competition will include gourd, cloth, buckskin, straight, fancy and more. Intertribal dancing and contests will be held throughout the weekend. Food and merchandise vendors will also be on-hand, so grab an Indian taco or other tasty treat and get ready for American Indian dancing at its finest. Phone: 580-492-3240.

JULy 19-22

OTOE-MISSOURIA SUMMER ENCAMPMENT: Encampment Grounds, 7500 Hwy 177 Red Rock. The Otoe-Missouria Tribe will host its 134th annual encampment this July at the tribe’s dancing grounds, located 20 miles north of Stillwater.

One of the most important gatherings for the Otoe-Missouria people, this event will include gourd dancing, a 5K run and contest dancing. The 2015-2016 Otoe-Missouria Princess will also be crowned during the four-day event. Arts and craft vendors, as well as food concessions, will be available. This event is free and open to the public. Phone: 580-723-4466.

JULy 27-29

kihekah steh Powwow: Javine Hill Road and 193rd Road, Skiatook. Head to Skiatook this July for the annual Kihekah Steh Powwow. This important Native American event will occur northwest of town and will feature a wide variety of traditional dancing and beautiful regalia. There will be gourd dancing nightly along with plenty of activities for kids like junior contests and Tiny Tots events. Browse handmade craft vendors or sample some of the delicious food available throughout the weekend. Bring a chair and enjoy the night of dancing. Phone: 918-637-4241.

inDian hiLLs Powwow: 9300 N. Sooner Rd., Oklahoma City. The Indian Hills Powwow in Oklahoma City is an exciting Native American gathering that is open and free to the public. Held in east Oklahoma City, this event will feature traditional dancing and competitions for all age groups. Visitors can purchase authentic American Indian arts and crafts and cheer on competitors in the horseshoe tournament. Indian tacos and other traditional foods will be available, as well as plenty of activities for children. So, grab the whole family and join in on this fun event. Phone 405-826-8189.

JULy 28-29

tULsa Powwow: Cox Business Center, 100 Civic Center, Tulsa. The Tulsa Powwow, the signature event of the Tulsa Indian Club since 1952, began as a small, backyard gathering and grew into a nationally known Native American

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25

otoe encaMPMent

The largest gathering of Otoe-Missouria people is the Summer Encampment held each year on the third weekend of July in Red Rock. The four-day celebration is a homecoming, and this gathering has taken place in Oklahoma since the arrival of the tribe in 1881. Filled with song, dancing and fellowship, the Encampment is the highlight of the social calendar.

In their own languages, the Otoes call themselves Jiwere (jee-WEH-ray) and the Missourias call themselves Nutachi (noo-TAH-chi). The state of Nebraska gets its name from an Otoe-Missouria phrase. The phrase is “Ni Brathge” (nee BRAHTH-gay) which means “water flat”. Ni Brathge was what the tribes called the Platte River, which is a major river that flows through the state.

The Otoe-Missouria Encampment Grounds is located 20 miles north of Stillwater at 7500 Hwy 177, in Red Rock. For information call 580-723-4466 or visit www.omtribe.org.

– Photo courtesy Otoe-Missouria Tribe

summer celebration.

Held for many years at Tulsa’s Mohawk Park, and now at the Cox Business Center, our powwow brings participants and attendees from all over the world. While the venue has changed over the years, our powwow has not. Phone: 918-207-5955.

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okLahoMa inDian nation Powwow anD sUMMerFest: Concho. Phone: 405-361-8945 or 405-422-7585.

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kaw nation Powwow: Washunga Bay Pow

Wow Grounds, 12613 E Furguson Avenue, Kaw City. Come out to experience the Kaw Nation Powwow and enjoy dance contests, exhibitions and audience participation for all ages. Various members of the Kaw Nation will descend upon Kaw City in full regalia on Friday night and Saturday to compete in numerous traditional dance contests such as fancy dancing. A traditional Native American supper will be served at 5pm Saturday and everyone is invited to attend. Visitors to the Kaw Nation Powwow will also enjoy an extensive selection of food and craft vendors. This event is free and open to the public.

aUGUst 4

eastern shawnee chiLDren’s Back to schooL Powwow: 127 Oneida St., Wyandotte. The Eastern Shawnee Children’s

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Back to School Powwow, held near Wyandotte, is a fun and educational event for kids complete with inflatables, face painting, snow cones, raffles and plenty of prizes. Kids will learn more about Native American culture through storytelling, traditional dancing and other engaging activities like flint knapping and pony rides. Booths filled with American Indian arts and crafts, as well as delicious, traditional foods will be available at this great event. Phone: 918-666-7710 or 866-978-1352.

aUGUst 9-12

wichita triBaL Dance: Wichita Tribal Park, Anadarko. Attend the annual Wichita Tribal Dance, a free event open to the public, to witness breathtaking American Indian dance competitions. Witness as Native American dancers whirl and stomp in traditional regalia to the heart-pumping beat of drums. Dance competitions will be open to Wichita Tribal citizens and their descendants. Gourd dancers, war dancers and a color guard will all participate in this year’s Wichita Tribal Dance. Free meals will be available on designated nights of the event. Food and vendor booths will also be on-site. Phone: 405-247-2425.

aUGUst 10-12

iicot Powwow oF chaMPions: ORU Mabee Center, 7777 S Lewis Ave, Tulsa. More than 300 dancers, dressed in full regalia, will participate throughout the weekend in ceremonies and dances, including awe-inspiring grand entries, intertribal dances and dance competitions.The grand entries at the Powwow of Champions mark the beginning of the sessions, led by the Eagle Staff and a Native American color guard. The procession of American Indian dignitaries and dancers is a brilliant and constantly moving sea of color circling the arena to the rhythmic beat of drum and song. In the competitive dance sessions, dancers use the whole arena to exhibit their skills with grace and finesse while attempting to catch the judges’ eyes with their personal style, footwork and striking dance regalia.

The Powwow of Champions, hosted by the Intertribal Indian Club of Tulsa, will also feature arts and crafts including an excellent selection of traditional and contemporary jewelry, turquoise, artwork, Kachina dolls, beadwork, paintings, pottery, quality handcrafted items, books and music. Traditional foods will be a prominent part

kiowa GoUrD cLan ceLeBration

Witness American Indian dancing by the Kiowa Gourd Clan at the annual Kiowa Gourd Clan Celebration in Carnegie. This event will feature the tribe’s Sun Dance, held in the middle of summer during the longest and hottest days of the year. Visit the Kiowa Gourd Clan Celebration to see gourd dancing, stunning shawls and drumming exhibitions, and celebrate Kiowa heritage at this traditional ceremony held at Carnegie City Park, Carnegie, Oklahoma. Call 580-654-2300 to confirm date and location.

– Photo courtesy Lester Harragarra

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of this annual powwow. Fry bread, meat pies and Indian tacos will be available as well as many other tempting and tasty items. Daily admission tickets, family day passes and weekend wristbands are available. Phone: 918-378-4494.

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cherokee nationaL hoLiDay Powwow: Cherokee Cultural Grounds, West 810 Road, Tahlequah. The Cherokee National Holiday celebrates the signing of the Cherokee Nation Constitution in 1839. This annual event is a celebration of Cherokee heritage and cultural awareness. The four-day holiday is full of activities for all ages, from traditional games like cornstalk and blowgun shooting, marbles and stickball to tournaments in sports like basketball and softball.

Many other events will take place, including a parade, children’s events and a car show. Vendors will be on hand offering authentic Native American products such as food, artwork, pottery, blankets and other unique items. The highlights of the celebration will be the inter-tribal powwows, held on both Friday night and Saturday night. Phone: 918-453-5544 or 918-453-1689.

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choctaw nation LaBor Day FestiVaL anD Powwow: Tvshka Homma, Tuskahoma. The Choctaw Nation invites all visitors to enjoy tribal heritage activities, an intertribal powwow, Choctaw cultural exhibitions, stickball games, arts and crafts, free concerts and carnival rides. This annual Tuskahoma event offers activities for all ages including sports tournaments, quilting demonstrations, live performances, buffalo tours and more. The Choctaw Nation Labor Day Festival kicks off with the Choctaw Princess Pageant. Come and see which lucky contestant is crowned Little Miss, Junior Miss and Miss Choctaw Nation.

The Choctaw Nation Labor Day Festival will present a series of free concerts featuring national stars

and well-known performers. Open to the public, these concerts are always a huge draw. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs to enjoy live musical performances from some of the top names in entertainment with crowds of festival-goers.Come to this festival to learn about Choctaw traditions and tribal customs. Celebrate this prime example of Native American culture with traditional village events, Choctaw dancing, stickball games, storytelling, silversmithing and demonstrations of primitive weaponry. Children’s activities will include a corn game and pottery-making. Don’t miss the Choctaw Nation Powwow and witness the amazing spectacle of hundreds of dancers around the nation descending on Tuskahoma in full regalia to compete in a variety of native dance competitions. Gourd dancing and traditional drumming will all be highlighted.

The Choctaw Nation Labor Day Festival will also feature traditional arts and crafts, handmade American Indian items on display, sporting tournaments, carnival rides and a State of the Nation address. Visitors will also enjoy a 5K run and walk, horseshoe tournaments, gospel singing, mechanical bull rides, pony rides for the kids and Inca flute players. Bring the entire family to enjoy an extensive selection of fun activities and information booths, and be rewarded with an exciting look into contemporary native culture. The Choctaw Nation Labor Day Festival is the place to be this Labor Day weekend.

A great way to begin any day of the festival is by visiting the Choctaw Nation Museum. The museum holds many historical artifacts and information about the Choctaw culture and past, including actual objects that were carried across the Trail of Tears and interactive exhibits. Phone: 800-522-6170 or visit www.ChoctawNation.com

*Powwow dates, times and locations are subject to change. Please call ahead or check online in advance before making travel plans.

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EUFAULA INDIAN CLUB POwwOw & hoMecoMinG: East Ball Field on Lake Eufaula. Native Americans in the Lake Eufaula community and visitors from other tribal nations come together for the Eufaula Indian Club Powwow each year during Labor Day weekend to honor veterans. This social American Indian gathering includes singing and traditional dancing, dancing competitions, arts & crafts, delicious food from vendors and souvenir programs. There are also opportunities for swimming and camping at Lake Eufaula, making it a perfect option for the entire family. This event is free and open to the public. Phone 918-584-9507.

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okLahoMa inDian sUMMer FestiVaL: Bartlesville Community Center, 300 SE Adams Road, Bartlesville. Come and enjoy a wealth of activities and exhibitions celebrating American Indian culture. This family-friendly event features youth and adult powwows with competitive and non-competitive dancing, storytelling, a talent show, church service, live entertainment and gospel sing. Witness as well-known American Indian artists in a variety of styles compete for the top prize in the Oklahoma Indian Summer art show and sale. Phone: 918-397-2125.

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eastern shawnee annUaL Powwow: 127 Oneida St., Wyandotte. Phone: 918-666-2435.

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coManche nation Fair: Comanche Nation Complex, Lawton. The Comanche Nation Fair in Lawton is the largest event of the Comanche Nation and features a powwow, parade, free concert, games and an art show. Other activities

include basketball and softball tournaments, a horseshoe tournament, quilt show, teen dance, fun run and spirit walk. Arts and craft vendors from around the country will be present, as well as a variety of food vendors. A children’s carnival featuring free rides will also be on-site.

This annual fall event brings together tribes from all across the nation. The much-anticipated powwow will feature traditional forms of dance such as gourd dancing and fire dancing. Photography is allowed during the dance competition, so don’t forget your camera. Attend this three-day event and immerse yourself in the historic traditions of the Comanche tribe. Activities including horse racing, hand games and storytelling will all be represented. Visitors to this year’s Comanche Nation Fair will also enjoy a cedar smoking ceremony, bull riding and a car show, plus a variety of children’s activities.

Celebrate Comanche culture at the largest American Indian gathering in southwest Oklahoma. This event is free and open to the public. Free camping near the powwow grounds will also be available. Phone: 580-492-3241.

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okLahoMa state UniVersity FaLL Powwow: 12pm-11pm, Payne County Expo Center, 4518 Expo CR E, Stillwater. Phone: 405-744-1085.

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annUaL keetoowah cherokee ceLeBration: Keetoowah Tribal Grounds, 18263 W. Keetoowah Circle, west of Tahlequah off HWY 62. The United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians in Oklahoma invites visitors to Tahlequah for festivities that celebrate the tribe’s heritage. Bring the family out to experience traditional American Indian crafts, games, Native American dancing and a parade at this year’s Keetoowah

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scaLP Dance

The Tonkawa, Ponca and other tribes practiced the scalp dance to honor warriors who returned from battle with the scalps of an enemy to prove victory. Women danced with the scalp, which had been painted and attached to a staff or lance, showing off the battle trophies to honor their men. Tonkawa dancers traditionally wear leggings, carry a black shawl and wear a black mark down the center of their face to distinguish their tribe. You won’t see scalps on top of the women’s staffs today, but you will see perhaps horse mane or a scarf.

In addition to the Scalp Dance, the annual Tonkawa tribal celebration in June includes a Scout Dance, contest dancing and a Nez Perce memorial ceremony.

For more information call 580-628-2561.

Cherokee Celebration. Enjoy a signing of the UKB Constitution, hog fry, gospel sing and cultural demonstrations. Information online at www.ukb-nsn.gov

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okLahoMa city PUBLic schooLs natiVe aMerican stUDent serVices stoMP Dance: 7pm, Grant High School, 5016 S. Penn Ave., Oklahoma City. Phone: 405-587-0355.

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okLahoMa city PUBLic schooLs natiVe aMerican stUDent serVices Powwow: 2pm, Grant High School, 5016 S. Penn Ave., Oklahoma City. Phone: 405-587-0355.

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choctaw casino Powwow: Choctaw Event Center, HWY 69/75, Durant. Free admission. For more information visit www.choctawcasinos.com or call 800-522-4700.

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new year’s eVe soBriety Powwow: Bacone College Event Center, Muskogee. Phone: 918-639-7999.

*Powwow dates, times and locations are subject to change. Please call ahead or check online in advance before making travel plans. See www.nativeoklahoma.us for more listings and updates through the season.

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stoMP DanceTraditional among tribes originally from the southeastern United States, stomp dancing is both a ceremonial and social event traditionally observed during the warm weather months.

For the Muscogee (Creek) people, stomp dancing’s origins date back three or four centuries. According to tradition, a fasting man participating in a religious ceremony fell into a trance and began dancing while singing medicine songs. Thinking it was a gift from the Creator, other men participating in the ceremony joined in and began dancing in unison.

The modern Muscogee (Creek) stomp dance has changed a little over the last few centuries, with women now being allowed to join in. All day prior to the dance, men fast and offer prayers. The dance is in the evening after the men break their fast.

The men begin walking in a single file counterclockwise around a fire. Women take their places alternately between the men, and followed by children. Although women are not allowed to lead stomp dances or the singing, they contribute the accompaniment with rattles strapped to their legs.

As part of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation’s annual festival, the stomp dance is scheduled to start at 6 p.m. on June 23 south of the tribe’s Mound Building at the intersection of U.S. Highway 75 and Oklahoma Highway 56. For more information, visit www.creekfestival.com

Stomp Dance | Photo courtesy Mvskoke Media

2617 s. roBinson, okLahoMa city, ok405.239.2774 | www.deanspawn.com

“Oklahoma City’s Oldest Pawn Shop”

NATIVE OKLAHOMA | APRIL 2018

Absentee-Shawnee Tribe 2025 South Gordon Cooper Shawnee Oklahoma 74801 Phone: 405.275.4030

Alabama-Quassarte Tribal Town 101 E. BroadwayWetumka, Ok. 74883Phone: 405 452-3987

Apache Tribe of Oklahoma 511 East Colorado DriveAnadarko, Okla. 405-247-9493

Caddo Nation of Oklahoma Hwys. 281 & 152 IntersectionBinger, Okla.405-656-2344

Cherokee Nation South of Tahlequah, Hwy. 62Tahlequah, Okla.918-453-5000

Cheyenne-Arapaho Tribes 100 Red Moon CircleConcho, Okla.405-262-0345

Chickasaw Nation 124 East 14th StreetAda, Okla. (580) 436-2603

Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma 529 N. 16th St., Durant, Okla. 800-522-6170

Citizen Potawatomi Nation 1601 Gordon Cooper DriveShawnee, Okla.405-275-3121

Comanche Nation 584 NW Bingo Rd.Lawton, Okla.877-492-4988

Delaware (Lenape) Tribe of Indians 5100 East Tuxedo Blvd.Bartlesville, Okla.918- 337-6550

Delaware Nation 31064 State Highway 281Anadarko, Okla.405-247-2448

Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma 127 Oneida St.Seneca, Missouri918-666-2435

Fort Sill Apache Tribe Route 2, Box 121Apache, Okla. 580-588-2298

Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma RR 1, Box 721Perkins, OK405-547-2402

Kaw Nation of Oklahoma 698 Grandview DriveKaw City, Okla.580-269-2552

Kialegee Tribal Town 623 East Hwy. 9 Wetumka, Okla.405-452-3262

Kickapoo Tribe of Oklahoma P.O. Box 70McLoud, Okla.405-964-7053

Kiowa Indian Tribe of Oklahoma Hwy. 9, West of CarnegieCarnegie, Okla.580-654-2300

Miami Tribe of Oklahoma 202 S. Eight Tribes TrailMiami, Okla.918-542-1445

Modoc Tribe of Oklahoma 418 G Street Miami, Okla.918-542-1190

Muscogee (Creek) Nation Hwy. 75 and Loop 56Okmulgee, Okla.800-482-1979

Osage Nation813 GrandviewPawhuska, Okla. 918-287-5555

Ottawa Tribe of Oklahoma 13 S. 69 A Miami, Okla.918-540-1536

Otoe-Missouria Tribe 8151 Hwy 177Red Rock, Okla.877-692-6863

Pawnee Nation of OklahomaPawnee, Okla.918-762-3621

Peoria Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma 118 S. Eight Tribes TrailMiami, Okla.918-540-2535

Ponca Tribe 20 White Eagle DrivePonca City, Okla.580-762-8104

Quapaw Tribe of Indians 5681 S. 630 Rd.Quapaw,Okla.918-542-1853

Sac and Fox Nation 920883 S. Hwy 99 Stroud, Okla.918-968-3526

Seminole Nation of Oklahoma Junction Hwys. 270 and 56P. O. Box 1498, Wewoka, Okla.405-257-7200

Seneca-Cayuga Nation23701 S 655 RoadGrove, Okla.918-542-6609

Shawnee Tribe 29 S. Hwy. 69AMiami, Okla.918-542-2441

Thlopthlocco Tribal Town 09095 Okemah Street Okemah, Okla. 918-560-6198.

Tonkawa Tribe of Indians 1 Rush Buffalo RoadTonkawa, Okla.580-628-2561

United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians PO Box 746Tahlequah, Okla.918-431-1818

Wichita and Affiliated Tribes [Wichita, Keechi, Waco, Tawakonie] Hwy. 281, Anadarko, Okla. 405-247-2425

Wyandotte Nation 64700 E. Highway 60Wyandotte, Okla.918-678-2297

OklahomaTribal Directory