Photos

The contemporary Pow Wow is a link to the past that helps maintain Native American heritage. Seen by outsiders as entertainment due to the singing, dancing and colorful regalia, the Pow Wow is a spiritual legacy which should be treated with respect and honor. It is a time for Native American families to be together with other family members and friends. It is a time of sharing, of laughter and tears, of learning, and of caring. It is a time when Native Americans reflect on their traditions. It is a time to honor the past and celebrate the future.

Each dance session begins with a Grand Entry, a procession of dancers. The Flag Bearers lead the procession carrying the Eagle Staff, American flag, Canadian flag, and frequently, the MIA-POW flag. Beinga a Flag Bearer is an honor usually given to a veteran, a respected traditional dancer, or a traditional elder. Indian Royalty are next, consisting of tribal and organizational princesses and other dignitaries. The Head Dancers lead a single file procession of dancers arranged by category and age.

- taken from the ASU 21st Annual Powwow information sheet -

Dressed for one of the Traditional Style dances, this young man was waiting for his turn to join the day's Grand Entry.

The image was cropped, brightened (significantly), contrast increased and sharpened.