Overcrowding An Issue at Pow Wows?

Overcrowding An Issue at Pow Wows?

There's no doubt about, Gathering of Nations is one of the most anticipated Pow Wows each year with representatives from over 500 nations attending the event. According to tourism statistics in New Mexico it's the 2nd largest event in the state, right behind the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.

In its 31st year, the pow wow was examined for safety issues with reports of at least 2,000 dancers on the floor during grand entry. Local TV reporters from KRQE TV took a closer look at the concern.

Gathering of Nations overcrowding causes concern

Across social media I have seen others complaining about the crowds, and some would rather go to a pow wow closer to home with less people.

What do you guys think?

Did any of you attend and have a hard time moving around and seeing everything?

Does it need to be moved to a bigger arena?

For partial transcript you can visit KRQE TV.

About Toyacoyah Brown

Toyacoyah Brown is an enrolled member of the Comanche Nation, currently living in Chicago. She received her B.A. in Journalism from the University of Oklahoma and an M.A. in Media Studies from the University of Texas at Austin. When she's not scouring the Internet for fun things to share with PowWows.com readers you can find her digging for vinyl in her local record store or curling up with a good book.


3 Comments on “Overcrowding An Issue at Pow Wows?”

  • Avatar for April

    April

    says:

    I think they need more room. Like enough to fill the country.

  • Avatar for Janna

    Janna

    says:

    I would rather be at the GON than anywhere else all year. The crowd feels like safety to me. All elders and children under any circumstances, I would be honored to assist and protect. Thank you.

  • Avatar for Rie

    Rie

    says:

    Love GON, but the crowding is a big concern. I walk with a cane and sometimes a leg brace on. In a crowd like GON it is a major concern to keep me safe, and to not tangle someone else up in my gear. Fallilng is my major fear. People were wonderful there, very polite, but sometimes there just wasn’t enough room to manuever, so I would end up just sitting, not going to look around – not engaging in one of my favorite sports – shopping! Love the vibe though, best sight seeing all year long!

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