Customs, History and a Lesson in Respect

On Saturday my husband and I had the opportunity to attend a Pow Wow. And before you start conjuring mental images of cowboys and six-shooters chasing around on horseback to battle the 'injuns' I want you to stop and take a minute to consider our nation's heritage.

When the Pilgrims came over on the Mayflower they were greeted by a people that were deemed different, hostile and frightening. That is....until they understood each other. The rest is history. (Yep - I said it!)

The Black Swamp InterTribal Foundation sponsored its' 5th Annual Perrysburg, Ohio Intertribal Gathering. And what an amazing experience this was.

The lessons taught about honoring Mother Earth, the Creator and the Great Spirit(s) are pretty basic in theory, but certainly lessons that need to be 'refreshed' in the hearts and minds of humankind.

Here are some photos that I took that demonstrate that while many nations were represented that all were respectful of each other, different customs and several generations. I hope you enjoy them as much as I enjoyed taking them.

Arvel Bird is a Native American fiddle player. He is a recording artist and provided some beautiful sounds to enhance a beautiful day.

Douglas Blue Feather is a Native American flute player. Also an acclaimed recording artist in his own right. The calming sounds of the flute and the incredible presentation is beyond description.

This man is a Desert Storm veteran who is of Native American ancestry. I did not catch his name, but I did thank him for his service to our country. His energy and passion for the traditions of the tribe were extremely obvious. The design on his face is of a bird in flight.

** UPDATE: I have since learned that this man's name is Brian Darcy. Brian is a Marine Corps. vet and served in Desert Storm.

Jamie Oxendine was the MC for the event. Jamie is of Lumbee/Creek ancestry and is a recognized speaker on Native American culture. He is also a recording artist and a guest Professor at Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio.

This lady is one of the lead ceremonial dancers. Her costume is authentic and her heritage is obvious. The pageantry of the day was just phenomenal.

** UPDATE: I have learned that this woman's name is Beth Fehsenfeld. Beth is from Kalamazoo, MI and she is of Shawnee/Ojibway heritage.

There was so much to see and learn. I would hope that each of you have the opportunity to attend a Pow Wow. Check your local Native American Affairs groups and learn. The lessons are simple but powerful and well worth the effort.

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you have enjoyed the photos.