22nd annual CMU Pow wow celebrates spirituality, welcomes visitors

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Drumbeats and singing sounded through the Events Center on Saturday as hundreds gathered to celebrate American Indian culture.

The Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe and several others participated in danced and drummed all Saturday and Sunday at the 22nd-annual Central Michigan University Pow wow. The event gave American Indians the opportunity to celebrate tradition, visit with family and friends, make new acquaintances and trade arts and crafts. It also offered visitors a chance to learn and participate in the traditions.

Dressed in cultural regalia, some in beads, feathers and headdresses, tribe members stepped and swayed to the spiritual music during the Grand Entry of the tribes.

More than just dancing took place on the stage. For people like Rob Wanageshik, powwows are a way to show respect for elders and pave the way for youth.

“I dance for the people who have went before me, the ones who can’t dance and the ones who will come forward still,” said the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa tribe member. “I also want others to learn about this tradition instead of having stereotypes.”

Wayland resident Cathy Moore, a member of the Gun Lake Tribe, has attended powwows across the U.S. and Canada for several years. This was her fifth year coming to CMU.

“I enjoy not only the dancing, but the tradition and companionship,” she said. “I follow the drum. The drum is the heartbeat.”

Head Veteran George Martin led the tribes holding the Eagle Staff, which represents American Indian nations in contemporary times, during the reverent flag song.

Stands selling American Indian arts, crafts and accessories lined the walls outside of the stadium. Incense, jewelry, moccasins and paintings were among the most popular items sold.

Planning committee member Sara Shawano said the CMU Pow wow has always seen a good turnout, but this year might have been the largest yet.

“There seem to be more visitors and dancers this year,” the Petoskey junior said. “I think it’s because there’s been more advertising for it.”

She said the Pow wow has been a tradition for years, bringing together the entire Central Michigan area.

“It gives people a chance to socialize in a different way,” Shawano said. “It’s a way to keep in contact with the culture.”