Powwow 101: What to Know Before You Attend a Powwow

Are you thinking about attending the inaugural Gathering of the Waters Powwow (Sept. 21, 11am-6pm, Carson Park), but you're not sure what to expect or how to participate? This program will introduce you to the purpose of ceremonial dances and the etiquette for non-indigenous participants. You'll see demonstrations of dances, songs, and dance regalia.

Becky Taylor, an enrolled member in the Lac Courte Oreilles band of Ojibwe, has been involved in powwows for over 60 years. She is a champion fancy shawl dancer throughout the Midwest and Canada, meaning she has won first place in contest powwows, receiving medals, trophies, plaques, and cash.

Thomas Cain is an enrolled member of the Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe and grew up on the powwow trail. A Grammy-winning artist, Thomas has been singing and dancing all over the North American powwow trail for over 30 years.

Program Sponsors: Friends of the L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library, Mayo Clinic Health System, Chippewa Valley Museum and the Wisconsin Humanities Council*.

*Funded in part by a grant from Wisconsin Humanities, with funds from the National Endowment for the Humanities. Wisconsin Humanities strengthens our democracy through educational and cultural programs that build connections and understanding among people of all backgrounds and beliefs throughout the state. Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this project do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.