We just had to share more photos from the 100th annual Meskwaki Powwow! 100 years is a big deal! PowWows.com reader Charles “Rain” Black photographed the event and was kind enough to share his photos and words with us.
It's intended to celebrate the Proclamation which allowed the Meskwaki Nation to purchase land and return to Iowa, as well as educate people about Meskwaki culture and history through demonstration of many Meskwaki dances. It lasts for four days early in each August, with a variety of special events and demonstrations going on each day, so repeat visitors can always see something new in addition to the regular dances.
Normally the only dancers are Meskwaki and those given special invitation (except during the intertribal of course). The Meskwaki powwow isn't normally a competition powwow, but this year in celebration of the 100th anniversary they had “specials” in which dancers of all ages were invited to compete for prize money. This further encouraged participation by the youth. The Meskwaki people take great pride in the degree to which young people are learning and maintaining their language, culture and traditions. A great deal of emphasis is put on getting young people to participate, which leads to having more youth dancing than adults.
Usually the powwow is held on the traditional grounds, a field of lush grass surrounded by trees. However, rains had led to issues with soft ground and the potential of a lot of mud and mild flooding, so it was moved to an arena behind the casino.
Beautiful Charles, thank you so much for sharing with us! For more great photography make sure you visit his website Eye Guess Photography.
Pauline
says:Thank you so much for taking and sharing the photographs of this Pow Wow. They are beautiful as are the subjects.