Pow wow

The 5th graders at school have been studying Native American since the start of school. Each class studied a different region and within the class the students broke out into groups to study tribes within those regions. The study of Native Americans was also integrated into the Art and Music classes which Alix participated in. In Art class the students made pinch pots that were placed in the campfire for firing, clay beads for stringing, and spirit sticks. In music they learned songs and dances. Their studies and hard work culminated in the annual Pow wow.

The day started with the assembly of the tepee.

(tepee photos by fellow parent)


After a lunch, including some of the foods the 5th grade harvested from their garden, each class performed songs and dances from their region.

My favorite dance was the Ribbon Dance. Following is an explanation of the dance.

The dance begins with three couples. Each of the women carries a different colored ribbon. The first woman carries a red ribbon which represents the men of the tribe. The second woman holds a blue ribbon which symbolizes the women of the tribe. The third woman carries a yellow ribbon representing the Great Spirit. When the drum starts, the three couples separate into different directions, only to meet together at the center of the dance circle.

The men face the women and take one end of their partners' ribbon. Then, the men braid the three ribbons together to symbolize the coming together of a man and a woman with the blessing of the Great Spirit. The ribbons are then unbraided and encircled about the waists of the women. The women must unwrap themselves, turning to each of the four directions of the world - north, east, south, and west. Finally, the men return the ribbons to the women, the couples separate, and they dance their way out of the circle.