Tribal pride runs high at Pow Wow

Tribal pride ran high at the sun-baked St David’s Cricket Club grounds today for the bi-annual Native American Pow Wow.

Several local and international tribes paid tribute to their ancestors through song, dance and ceremony at the event organized by the St David’s Islanders and Native Community.  

They came wearing flamboyant regalia adorned with shells, vibrant colours and decorative feathers in the ceremony of healing and celebration for loved ones passed.

Cherokee, Mashpee Wampanoag, Pequot, and Narragansett and Gombeys were among the tribes taking part.

The day opened with the Grand Entry – a sacred ceremony performed in a circle around a fire. It was led by the tribal flag carriers, lead dancers and then tribal members.

This was followed by an Honour Dance, the placing of the flags and welcoming of the dignitaries including Clan Elder Amelia Bingham, aged 90, and Chief Vernon “Silent Drum” Lopez, aged 91.

Veterans were welcomed into the circle before the inter-tribal dances began. Another sacred ceremony – the Libation Ceremony – then took place in honour our ancestors which culminated in the releasing of floral wreaths into the water at Red Hole.

The celebrations continue today until 5pm and take place again tomorrow from 11am to 5pm.

See more coverage in the Bermuda Sun on Wednesday.

@sarahlaganlife