One of the most common, yet misunderstood, customs of Native American culture is the Pow Wow. You can do a Google search
for Pow Wow and read about them. But there is no better way to really feel the energy of a Pow Wow than to actually attend one. I had the honor of not only attending the Howard County, Maryland Pow Wow, but also learning about the event from Keith Colston, the voice of the Howard County Pow Wow. Here is a glimpse into the conversation I had with Keith:
Pickled Roots: What is the significance of the Pow Wow?
Keith Colston: The Pow Wow originally began to honor individuals returning from battle and hunts… Today, the Pow Wow is done to see old friends and keep the culture alive in a public manner.”
Pickled Roots: Why is it important to keep the Pow Wow alive publicly?
Keith Colston: Sharing the Pow Wow is important because it allows people to see and also participate. If you experience it, you understand it. If you understand it, you appreciate it.”
Pickled Roots: How is Native culture and spirituality similar to other indigenous world cultures?
Keith Colston: Love, respect, honor, and humility are universal feelings and themes. When people don’t express them, we have [problems]. We should be surprised when there is disrespect and boastfulness. We need love today. We need to enjoy seeing the love.
Pickled Roots: If you could only keep one tradition, which would it be?
Keith Colston: It would be the Round Dance. It allows the nations to come together in dance. It is a dance of equality and unity, which is desperately needed at this time. It is a type of social dancing and you will see this here today. Everyone is invited to participate.
Thanks to Keith for taking time to speak with Pickled Roots about the Pow Wow!! Stay tuned for more highlights about the Pow Wow.
