Annual Powwow Brings Native Culture and Craft to Hanover

Colorful Native American regalia will swirl around the Green May 7 and 8 as the 44th annual Dartmouth Powwow honors and showcases tribal traditions. Grand Entry will take place at noon both days, when dancers and musicians line up to begin the festivities. Sadie Red Eagle ’19 will serve as head woman dancer. Drummers, other musicians, and dancers will come to Hanover from other parts of the country, and some will compete for prizes. On Saturday, Hawaiian students will host a luau. Sunday will bring an observation of Mother’s Day and a ceremony honoring veterans. The rain location is the Leede Arena.

Andrew Shipman ’18, from the Cherokee Nation and powwow committee co-chair, is looking forward to this annual gathering that instills pride in Native American customs and crafts. He says 20 vendors will offer “a huge assortment of jewelry, bags and purses, clothing, and other traditional handmade goods. We invite everybody to stop by.”  

The powwow has a rich history at Dartmouth. In 1971, newly inaugurated President John Kemeny promised to increase opportunities for Native Americans in higher education. In 1973, Dartmouth held its first powwow, a small gathering at Storrs Pond. The event has grown in size and scope, now attracting hundreds of participants and onlookers.

Dartmouth’s two-day celebration is organized by a student powwow committee and co-sponsored by Native Americans at Dartmouth, the Native American Program, the Native American Alumni Association at Dartmouth, the Office of the President, and the Special Programs and Events Committee. Free and open to the public, it’s an inclusive celebration that allows people from all backgrounds to observe and take part in indigenous arts and culture.