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Native American student club to host sixth annual powwow
The Advocate
The sixth annual Kanawaksooma (Quiet Thunder) Powwow will be held Saturday in the MHCC gymnasium from noon to 10 p.m.
MHCC’s Native American student club, Chako-Kumtux, welcomes the public to this free event. The “powwow” is a cultural celebration of American Indian music, dance, food, and traditions. Arts and crafts will be available for sale and a salmon and buffalo feed begins at 5:30 p.m.
In a press release, Chako-Kumtux president Renea Ly-Menchaca said, “This event gives the Native American Community, MHCC students and the greater Portland and Gresham area communities the opportunity to interact with each other, and create a healthy dialogue among different cultures.”
The grand entries begin at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Grand entry is a parade of nations, which includes American Indian veterans, color guard, dignitaries, and dancers in regalia from different tribes gathering together in the arena to the sound of traditional American Indian drumming, singing and prayer. The eagle staff and flags represent nations, families and communities.
Ly-Menchaca gave the following advice: Powwow etiquette includes not pointing at anyone, not referring to anyone’s regalia as costumes, and not touching anyone’s regalia or eagle feathers without permission. Before taking photographs of people in regalia who are not dancing, ask permission before doing so, especially the parents of young children. Listen closely to the arena director, because there will be times when photography is not allowed at all.
During the free salmon feed, elders and people with disabilities will be served first, then women, children and men. This event is family-oriented and no alcohol, drugs, or pets is allowed on the premises.
The powwow is co-sponsored by Chako-Kumtux, The Bow and Arrow Club and the Associated Student Government. Ly-Menchaca said, “Chako-Kumtux promotes and encourages the use of diverse and multicultural education on MHCC as a means to structure student development. The club is open to all students; we don’t discriminate.”
For more information about the powwow or Chako-Kumtux, contact Ly-Menchaca at 503-875-3635.
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