The following is a reflection written by LaRayne, Native American Studies Lead at St. Joseph’s Indian School, to share her knowledge of powwow dances and their corresponding regalia.
Dancing in a powwow competition takes good health — mind, body, heart and spirit. Our dancers might make it look easy, but it is not always as easy as it looks!
Each dance category has its own common or “straight” dances, as well as special dances that require a more detailed understanding of the dance style, cultural knowledge and energy.
Physically, dancers follow the beat of the drum, moving in a sacred and beautiful manner from head to toe. Regalia can add weight to the body, increasing the physical demands of the dance.
Each style requires strength in the legs, arm movement, balance, stamina and confidence.
Most powwow contests consist of two songs with a short break in between to catch your breath and take a sip of mní — water. Fancy dancers — both women and men — use the most movement, energy and breath in their dance styles. Their movements can include higher knee lifts, twists and, for some men, even cartwheels!
But the health of a dancer is about much more than the physical body. Emotionally and mentally, each dance style requires confidence and a strong understanding of cultural values. It takes courage to step into the circle and put yourself out there in front of many people to be judged, while also knowing how to move in an appropriate and respectful way.
Dancers must learn the meaning behind each dance and how to show respect for the drums and the people around them. They also learn how to win and lose with the utmost respect. Many emotions are carried by dancers as they connect who they are as individuals to the love of Grandmother Earth and all that she gives to us as a people.
Spiritually, many dance styles honor our ancestors and carry prayers for those who need them. Traditional women dancers dance to bring their male relatives home safely from a hunt or battle. Jingle Dress dancers carry prayers for healing and for those who are unable to dance because of illness. Grass dancers prepare the space of Grandmother Earth so all people can enter the circle in celebration, creating a space that is safe, sacred and blessed.
If you have the privilege of attending a powwow, you will see that it is about so much more than dance. The physical, emotional, spiritual and mental aspects all come together in wičhózani wašté — good health — of the mind, body, heart and spirit.
The next time you watch dancers enter the circle, take a moment to look beyond the movement. Notice the strength, knowledge, prayers, culture and spirit carried with every step.
Learn more about powwow dances with this fun, interactive activity. You can also download St. Joseph’s Indian School’s FREE Powwow Booklet with information about the powwow dances and unique styles of regalia.
