The University of Southern Mississippi will host its 23rd annual Southern Miss Powwow on Saturday, Nov. 21, at Hinton Park in Petal, Miss. The event is free and open to the public, bringing together Native American communities and visitors for a day of traditional dance, music and cultural celebration.
Organized by the Golden Eagle Intertribal Society (GEIS) and the School of Interdisciplinary Studies and Professional Development, the Powwow provides an opportunity to experience and learn about Native American cultures and traditions.
“Although powwows are not traditional to the Southeast, they do offer opportunities to gather, socialize with one another, pass on traditions, tell our Southeastern stories and be a hub for Southeastern Native gatherings,” said Dr. Tammy Greer, faculty adviser for GEIS and associate professor in the School of Psychology.
For Native American students at Southern Miss, the annual gathering also provides a sense of belonging and an opportunity to celebrate their heritage alongside members of surrounding communities.
“The Southern Miss Powwow serves as an opportunity for us to honor those that have gone before us and those that are yet to come,” said Alice Keats, president of GEIS. “The Powwow also highlights that our cultures are still alive today and are not just a part of our history, but a living legacy.”
The event begins at 10 a.m., with gourd dancing at 11 a.m. and the grand entry at 1 p.m. Approximately 10 categories of traditional dancing will be featured, with opportunities for attendees to participate when invited.
This year’s Powwow will also recognize military personnel and first responders. Service members will be honored during the Gourd Dance, which precedes the grand entry, and again as they carry the flags during the grand entry.
Native American artisans will have traditional crafts, beadwork, clothing and other handmade items. The Southern Miss College of Nursing and Health Professions will also provide free health screenings.
While the Powwow celebrates Native American heritage, the gathering also welcomes attendees of all backgrounds to experience and appreciate the traditions being shared.
“For indigenous people, this is a homecoming celebration for us as we are continuing the legacy our ancestors have built,” said Keats. “A powwow isn’t just an event to come watch, it is an opportunity to learn, connect and celebrate indigenous culture being shared with sincere pride.”
