Every year the Kathryn M. Buder Center for American Indian Studies and Washington University (Wash-U) partner up to host a annual event, known as the “Wash-U Powwow.” A Powwow is a cultural event where Native Americans and Non-Native Americans come together to dance, socialize, and honor Native American culture, traditions, and history.
Many Natives attend to compete in dancing competitions, but the main part many love is coming together to socialize and have fun with friends and family. This not only brings the Native community together but also brings many people interested in learning about Native culture in general.
The main categories one will see at a Powwow is men’s grass, fancy, traditional, and southern straight. For women, one will see women’s fancy shawl, jingle dress, and traditional.
I personally have been attending and dancing at the Wash-U Powwow for nine years, and I can say it’s the best and the event I always look forward to every year. I have danced in competition for all the years I have danced and am a well-known dancer around the arena. I have danced men’s traditional most of the dance years but have started dancing grass as of 2024.
This event is a great idea not only for the Native community but also for Non-Natives to learn and ask questions about our culture. People have asked why I started dancing in the first place. I started dancing because my great grandpa danced, and I knew that I wanted to carry on the tradition. I strive to honor my traditions and teach my culture to people to let them know that we are still here, and to honor my ancestors. I plan on continuing to dance at the Wash-U Powwow, and also travel to teach people about Native traditions.
I also had the chance to interview a well known dancer in the arena, Randy Solomon.
“I love the fact that the Powwow takes place in St. Louis and is held by the Native Student Association of Wash-U, who strive on keeping indigenous students active in participating and demonstrating their culture. This keeps the Native students involved and in touch with their cultural identity and awareness,” Solomon said.
As a tribal member Solomon always looks forward to supporting the students for the efforts in hosting a cultural event at the university.
