Pay Attention and Listen. The MC (master of ceremonies) can be heard via
the sound system. He is coordinating the powwow and advises the visitors of additional protocol.
Non-natives are welcome at powwow celebrations to learn and share in the cultural and social traditions
but are expected to show respect and understanding for these events.
Never Refer To A Dancer's Regalia As a Costume. A dancer's regalia
may also be called their outfit. These beautifully handcrafted outfits are not costumes! Much thought,
time, energy and expense goes into the making of each outfit. Often pieces of the regalia are family
heirlooms. Regalia is created by the dancer or by a respected family member or friend. The feathers in
particular are sacred and highly valued and cared for. Sometimes years have gone into the final
completion of a dancer's regalia.
Never Touch A Dancer's Regalia. Again, respect, respect, respect! A friend of mine told me he
felt a tugging at his back and to his dismay, a woman had a hold of one of the eagle feathers of his
traditional bustle! She kept pulling and saying she wanted one! If you feel the need to touch, always
ask permission, and be gentle and considerate. Respect the personal space of dancers as you should for
anyone.
Use Courtesy and Respect When Photographing. The majority of powwows are
public events and taking
pictures of the dancers during inter-tribal or during dance competition is usually acceptable. The MC
will let you know when it will be absolutely not acceptable to take photographs. However, if you want a
dancer to pose for you outside the arbor, always introduce yourself and ask permission. If you are a
professional photographer or artist and feel you may use the image in the future for a commercial
project, tell the dancer. Make sure it is OK with him or her and the safest bet is to ask if they will
sign a model's release. Even if the photos are only for your personal use and not commercial,
offer to send the dancer copies. They are usually happy to give you a mailing address so that you may
send them photos.
Do Not Enter The Dance Arbor After It Has Been Blessed. At the beginning of the powwow
festivities, the
Dance Arbor is blessed. Walking or running into the Arbor is prohibited. The only time guests may enter
the Arbor is to participate during Intertribal Dances, Round Dances, Blanket Dances or during
an Honoring dance that the MC may announce. Don't cut across the Arbor just to get to the other side!
Stand During Grand Entry. The MC will announce the beginning of Grand Entry and will ask everyone
to
stand. The Eagle Staff and American Flag will be brought into the dancer arbor and you should remain
standing during the Flag Song and the Invocation. The same is asked during the Veterans Songs and
Closing Songs and when the Staff and Flags are taken out of the Arbor. Men should remove their hats
during these times.
Do Not Sit On Any Chairs Under the Dance Arbor. The seating under the Dance Arbor is reserved
for the
dancers, drums and other powwow participants. It's a good idea to bring folding chairs to a powwow
and set them up just behind the outer area of the Arbor. Throwing a blanket over your chair marks it as
belonging to someone. Unless you've been invited to sit under the Arbor, please respect the
sitting provided for participants, especially those chairs covered with a blanket or shawl!
Never Record a Drum Without Permission Of The Head Singer. Ask to tape songs. The MC may also
announce
that no recording or photographs take place during certain songs. Frequently people do stand around
drums and tape without permission without any consequences. But it shows respect and consideration to
ask permission first.
No Alcohol Or Drugs Permitted At Powwows. Today's powwows are alcohol and drug free
environments. Many support AA activities and roll call. Anyone found under the influence or in the
possession of drugs will be immediately escorted off the powwow grounds.
Respect Everyone, Non-Native and Native, Especially Elders. Treat everyone with respect and
kindness.
Look out for the children. Treat others as you would expect to be treated.
Finally, Have A Good Time! Above anything else, powwows are social events. A time to see old
friends
and meet new ones. Don't be afraid to ask questions and engage in conversation with vendors,
dancers, singers and other powwow participants. Enjoy yourself!
