Heartbeat of Tradition

Powwows, a staple of the Flathead Reservation, offer opportunities for Indigenous communities across the reservation to gather and see family and friends they might not see very often. There are two main powwows during the summer months: Elmo and the Arlee powwow. There are also smaller powwows like the Veteran’s Day powwow in November. Powwows are community events, which many people attend. However, when the subject of powwows comes up It’s pretty common to hear someone say that they feel as if they can’t go. Polson High School senior Lizzy Cunningham said, “My mom has always wanted to go, but I’m always too nervous to go.” In reality powwows are meant for all; they’re to share the rich cultures that these tribes hold. They aren’t strictly for Native people; everyone is welcome. 

Powwows are commonly known for dancing in elaborate outfits called regalia. Regalia includes moccasins, beadwork, shawls, dresses and belts; it’s important not to call a dancer’s regalia a “costume” because doing so is disrespectful. It’s important to recognize that the regalia is not a costume because it’s a showcase of their culture. Each piece of a dancer’s outfit carries significance. 

Eagle feathers are very sacred. Almost every dancer has an eagle feather, which cannot touch the ground.  If one of these feathers touch the ground the dancers stop all other dancing to fix it. When an Eagle feather drops there’s no recording or taking pictures, until the situation is rectified. It’s seen as bad luck to record the dance while fixing the Eagle feather. Since Eagle feathers are so highly esteemed, it is a sign of great respect to receive one.

There are certain rules you must follow at powwows to show respect to the dancers and other spectators. During the dances, also known as War Dances, spectators are expected to stand for the flag song and remove their headgear. The flag song is similar to the national anthem and is extremely important to the Indigenous community. Failing to rise is very disrespectful to the veterans and anyone else the flag song honors. Once the dancing begins people leave room for elders or anyone else, while recording or watching the dancing. If they’re not dancing, asking for permission is required before pictures of the dancers are taken. During the Golden Age categories, except elders that are 60 and above, spectators stand out of respect as the dancers dance. During a powwow there will also be food or clothing stands selling merchandise. Most stands do not take card transactions, so most people bring cash instead. They also bring chairs so they have somewhere to rest their legs because many powwows do not provide chairs or other seating. Powwows are events that are meant for the community to attend, meet new friends and see familiar faces.