The Madison College annual spring Pow Wow has a decades long tradition. The annual Pow Wow was first started on Truax Campus 30 years ago and was initially organized entirely by Native students. Over the years this celebration of indigenous heritage became a collaboration between Native students, the Native American Student Association (NASA), and various Madison College organizations such as Student Life and Intercultural Exchange.
Katie Ackley, Program Advisor for NASA, DC3, and Community Impact and College Engagement says it is now one of the most prominent intertribal Pow Wows in southern Wisconsin drawing over a thousand people every year.
There are two main formats for Pow Wows, contest style where dancers compete within their category, and traditional style that is noncompetitive. Madison College hosts a traditional Pow Wow that features the six main dancing categories recognized by specific regalia, dance attributes and songs. At Madison College, registered dancers that wear their regalia are compensated for their participation in this event.
Fancy Feather for men and Fancy Shawl for women which are characterized by their energetically sophisticated footwork and vibrant regalia. Jingle dress style known for the rhythmic sound made by cones sewn into the dress. Grass dancers whose flowing movements and fringed regalia mimic those of prairies. And finally Traditional style for men and women which is a slower style often danced by experienced elder dancers.
In preparation to attend a Pow Wow, it is necessary to enter the space in a good way, this can be done by joining in with prayers and tobacco and being sober. Many people get into this mindset by preparing their outfits. Making new ribbon skirts or getting dressed up in their regalia is a common practice.
Madison hosted many special guests for this event. The Drum Circle, which is the heartbeat of any Pow Wow regularly rotates members to reflect the diversity of our Midwestern tribes. Little Bear from the Ojibwe Nation was the Host Drum for this year’s ceremony, supported by Invited Drums: Bearheart, Little Priest Singers, 2nd Island, Tomahawk Circle, and Twin Tails.
Sanford White Eagle Legion Post 556 led the color guard in honor of indigenous veterans and those in the community actively enrolled in the military with Alton “Sonny” Smart fulfilling the role of Head Veteran. Cheryl and Ken Funmaker were the Head Female and Male Dancers respectively and led both grand entries, setting a beautiful example for the next generation of dancers.
Executive Chef and Founder of the nonprofit Wild Bearies, Chef Elana Terry provided dinner for the event. She is dedicated to building community through indigenous cuisine. She has worked with many institutions like the Smithsonian, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and Intertribal Agriculture Council.
The Redsten Gym hosted about 20 vendors who provided an array of items for sale. Food vendors made frybread and Indian taco. Craft vendors presented their art, jewelry, clothes and intricate beadworks.
Pow Wows are an important expression of cultural heritage in indigenous communities. They allow Native culture to be centered, to take up space and be visible in a country that tried to destroy it. Bringing the several generations of the Native community together supports language revitalization and cultural education.
Ackley said this environment provides a space of healing from historical trauma and opportunity to continue indigenous philosophies that reject assimilation into dominant American culture. Ackley went on to say that the continuation of Pow Wows means “we are still here, and we are thriving.”
If you are interested in experiencing the vibrancy of native culture and are looking for a good time, attend Madison College’s Pow Wow next year, everyone is welcome.
To get involved with NASA, whose mission is to provide a place, belonging, and support for the needs of Native American and Alaskan Native students, you can contact them at [email protected].
