Footsteps of Tradition... lead to Pathways to Honor

By Janice Tarlecki

With brightly colored array, thundering drums and high-pitched cries, the annual Chako Kum-Tux Native American Pow-wow again graced the halls of MHCC on Saturday, October 7. From babies to World War II veterans, every age was represented, bringing a vast wealth of tradition to the “Kanawaksooma - Quiet Thunder Celebration.”

The first thing one notices, is the depth of honored traditions and family values held among the native groups represented. The Grand Entry, led by the Northwest Indian Veterans Association, was followed by many families with young children, falling in step behind the honored “Head Whipman” Ed Goodall. As the traditional parade curved around the large circular dance floor, an apparent chain of command and respect became fairly evident. Age, wisdom, and heroic deeds led the way among the most respected, in a teachable moment of honor for those who will follow in their steps for years to come.

As the colorful, solemn parade moved slowly to the podium, the Indian and American flags were carried by the NIVA. It was an emotional moment as Tony Talbert, a war veteran in a wheelchair having lost both legs, carried the American flag to the post. As the tribal leader led in prayer, the hush over the huge gym was instant and awe-inspiring.

Although the attendance was down from last year, those who came brought a high level of activity and family involvement. Entire families of four and five generations participated, from a baby in a papoose to great-grandmothers. Fathers were spinning with babies in their arms, while grandmothers and little girls walked side-by-side in matched footsteps. Young girls sat at their mother’s feet having their hair braided and woven with beads in the traditional style of their particular tribe. Young braves beat the drums with their fathers at the drumming circle, learning the traditional songs and techniques for the ancient style cry.

Vendors displaying their traditional style of wares, including jewelry, buckskin dresses, stained glass, and painted war-shields were among the many areas to browse. Samples of tender smoked buffalo jerky were very popular, while others tried out the hand-carved flutes. John and Maggie Eley, owners of Medicine Wheel Studios, had a huge display of traditional items, hand-made. John, after coming to America a few years ago, picked up the Indian culture and crafts. “When I first saw the native crafts, I took to it like a duck to water,” he said, with a bit of brogue in his voice. “I can find my own spirit in the individuality of each piece, and the joy of making it with my own hands,” he added. Maggie smiled and nodded, saying “he would have fit into a plains tribe like a glove.”

It is tradition to bring out the “six and under” age groups, and allow them to dance as they have seen their parents and respected elders perform. After their dance, the “head-whipman” (so-called because of utilizing a long cropping stick as a pointer to direct) lines up the young children to receive a blessing from an elder along with a small gift. Some were barely able to walk, yet they danced with the help of another child or parent. A tiny 16-month-old girl named Morgan, dressed in a floral dress walked hand in hand with her father, Robert Van Pelt, SAB gallery and art student coordinator. Another small girl named Paloma twirled in her pink and blue shiny dress, while friends giggled around her, keeping their balloons afloat while they danced.

The tribes place high value on the family as a mentoring and leading tool, shaping the lives of the following generations. There is incredible respect awarded to their elders by the young people of all ages, including teens and young adults. Such reverence for the wisdom of the previous generations seems to be the strength that brings such close ties and honor to each tribal member.

Chako Kum-Tux, the MHCC Native Club, and the Bow and Arrow club were the sponsors of the Pow-wow, bringing authentic dance, food and crafts from all over the Northwest. Van Pelt, was busy cooking buffalo to feed the hungry dancers and attendees, while lines formed for authentic Indian fry bread.

The Chako Kum-Tux club leads and participates in many events on campus, as part of their commitment to diversity. “Article 13 of our constitution states that we shall perform one annual event in honor of all other clubs at MHCC, and this is that event, said Van Pelt. “The Quiet Thunder Celebration was so named by one of our medical” students. It is our Native American students getting educations, and then returning to our tribal communities to make a loud impression. That’s why we call it Quiet Thunder,” said Van Pelt.