‘Echoing Traditional Ways’ Pow Wow celebrates Native American heritage

Vibrant colors could be seen whirling through the air Saturday during Utah State University’s 43rd Annual Pow Wow in the Nelson Fieldhouse.

Beautifully decorated regalia on almost 50 dancers from the around the western United States represented tribes like the Shoshone, Cherokee, Ute and Navajo.

Tyra Hardin, a freshman majoring in family, consumer and human development, has been dancing since she was 8 years old. This was her first time dancing at USU’s Pow Wow.

“It was a good experience. I really like that we made one of the biggest events,” Hardin said.

The Native American Student Council organized the event. Being part of the NASC has helped many students of Native American heritage connect with other students and share their culture, both on and off campus.

“Being part of NASC helps me a lot, especially to move from being around a bunch of natives, to going to a place where there aren’t as many,” Hardin said.

The dancers’ energy was contagious to many of those watching the performance. Small children could be seen running around, jumping to the steady beats of the drums. Many watched in awe as dancers performed with energy and love for their culture.

“It makes me feel proud and happy because we have been through a lot as a race and yet we still can dance and sing,” Hardin said. “I am excited to continue pow wows for more years to come and to continue our traditions.”

The dances are an important aspect of Native American culture because they are used to celebrate and to connect people and cultures, Hardin said. Some of the dances have spiritual and religious meaning, so many of those who dance in them feel a strong connection to their background.

“Dancing has connected me to my culture because when you dance you learn about the meaning behind each song and dance style,” Hardin said. “Also, dancing at pow wows is a place to meet other dancers and elders where we share our traditions and stories.”

Several types of dances were performed: traditional, fancy shawl, jingle and grass.

Denishia Tsosie, who is majoring in business administration, participated alongside Hardin. She enjoyed dancing at the Pow Wow and liked that there were many tribes present.

“It makes me feel more connected with other tribes other than just the Navajo tribe,” Tsosie said. “Dancing makes me feel better about myself knowing that I’m a dancer of the healing people and helping people that need help healing in any way such as health reasons or losing a loved one.”

NASC is willing to share Native American culture with all who want to know more.

“Students shouldn’t be afraid to ask any native students on campus about our culture,” Tsosie said. “We love to share our culture.”

There are elders within each tribe that are knowledgeable and are willing to talk about the Native American culture.

“If students want to learn about the culture, its best to hear from an elder or native themselves rather than looking on the internet or textbook,” Hardin said. “They can learn so much more about the culture just by being at a pow wow.”

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@RoniALake