Powwow Etiquette
Transcription of slides
Slide 1: Get Ready to Powwow! First time at a Powwow? Swipe to see etiquette and other info
Slide 2: As customs and protocol vary from one community to another, this info deck should only serve as a basic guide, and not as a sole authoritative directory. *INFORMATION BASED ON MURTON MCCLUSKEY’S “YOUR GUIDE TO UNDERSTANDING AND ENJOYING POW WOWS”*
Slide 3: WHAT ARE THE MC AND AD?
The Master of Ceremonies (MC) informs everyone about what is happening in the arena, where to eat and other announcements. Always listen to the MC as they will give all of the information you need and entertain you. They can also answer questions you have about the powwow agenda.
The Arena Director (AD) is responsible for keeping track of the dance contests, singers and special events.
This duo keeps the powwow going in an orderly fashion and are very valuable in assuring a successful celebration
Slide 4: WHAT ARE HEAD DANCERS?
The powwow circuit always strives to present exemplary role models for members of the community. The Head Dancers are such role models. These Individuals exhibit outstanding qualities and are asked to serve in this capacity. The responsibilities of this position include being present throughout powwow activities and leading other dancers by being the first to begin each intertribal song.
Head Dancers dance every intertribal song and have to be the first dancers in the arena.
Slide 5: WHAT IS A GRAND ENTRY?
An Eagle Staff is carried into the powwow circle along with the 2S, LGBTQ+, American, Canadian, state, tribal flags (flags vary by committee) by veterans. Head Dancers dance in behind the flags, followed by visiting royalty. The AD then arranges the rest of the dancers to dance in by their respective categories.
A Flag Song is sung after the grand entry song(s), which is the equivalent of a national anthem. An invocation blessing is done by the Spiritual Leader. A welcome is shared and various traveling royalties will speak.
After the Grand Entry, the rest of the powwow will commence.
Slide 6:
BAAITS hosts annual Two Spirit Powwows. “Two-Spirit” is an intertribal phrase taken from the Anishinaabe term describing such individuals: ‘niizh manidoowag.” This directly translates to “two spirits”-those embodying both the feminine and masculine.
Any “traditional” customs are not always applicable in this sacred space. Gendered regalia, heteronormative language, and binary gender roles are not present.
Slide 7: PHOTOGRAPHY/VIDEO PROTOCOL
All photographers and videographers are required to ask permission of each individual before taking images of dancers, singers, drum groups or vendors.
Photographers/Videographers are not allowed in the dance arena without special authorization. Photographs are to be taken from outside of the dance arena. Refer to the MC as they will announce specific times when all photography is not permitted.
Slide 8: WHAT IS THE ETIQUETTE? Part 1
If you are able, stand during special songs. The MC will indicate when to stand and/or remove hats as a sign of respect. These songs include Grand Entry Songs, Veterans Songs, Memorial Songs, Prayer Songs, or any other song indicated by the MC Please respect these traditions.
This event is not a performance and dancers do not wear "costumes." Certain items including feathers, regalia, and drums are of highly spiritual significance and it is inappropriate to touch these items without permission.
Respect the dance arena and the powwow grounds. This is a sacred space that has been blessed so please conduct yourself with care and keep it clean. Do not walk across the arena, go around. All animals, including service animals, are not allowed in the dance arena but are welcome everywhere else.
Slide 9: WHAT IS THE ETIQUETTE? Part 2
Join in and dance during intertribal songs! The MC will announce when the public can join in during intertribal songs and social dances. It is courteous to ask for confirmation before moving around in the dance arena.
Powwows are usually non-profit and depend on donations, raffles, blanket dances, etc. for support. Donations are encouraged as a way to honor someone.
Any participant can drop money onto the blanket to aid the powwow or honor a dancer or visit the donation page on our website.
The BAAITS Powwow committee asks that all attendees wear masks and are strongly encouraged to seek current vaccination for COVID/Flu.
No alcohol or drugs are allowed at any time.
You will be asked to leave the powwow grounds should these items be present