Dancers perform at last year's spring powwow. Photo: Wayne Armstrong
EDITORS NOTE: Due to a chance of rain, this event has been moved to Gates Fieldhouse, 2201 East Asbury Ave, Denver, CO 80208
DU’s second annual spring powwow will be held May 19.
Native nations from throughout the United States will be represented at the powwow, “New Beginnings,” to be hosted by DU’s Native Student Alliance with the support of the University’s chapter of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity.
“This is a traditional event to bring various native communities together to practice their native dances and wear their traditional regalia,” says Johanna Leyba, assistant provost for inclusive excellence.
Native American vendors will sell handcrafted art, jewelry and food at the powwow, which will start at 3 p.m. and end at dusk.
“This is a great opportunity for the DU community to learn about Native American communities today, as well as their surviving histories and cultures and traditions,” Leyba says.
Powwows originally were held as part of spiritual celebrations, Leyba says.
“They have evolved into annual gatherings for native peoples to celebrate their traditions, connect and engage in friendly competition,” she says.
The event is free and open to the public.