The Kumeyaay Way - Winter 2008 - (Page 21)

F o c u s o n t h e F u t u r e , r e s p e c t t h e pa s t VIEJAS REPORTS Viejas pow Wow honors native american Veterans O n November 8 and 9, just before the Veteran’s Day holiday, Viejas honored Native American veterans with the first traditional pow wow ever to be held on the Viejas Reservation. The weekend was complete with native dancers, singers and musicians from across the country. Throughout history, Native Americans have had the highest percentage of their population serving in the military, demonstrating their willingness to sacrifice all for the freedoms that make their country great. Honoring those who have gone before, fighting in the line of duty, and honoring those who are currently protecting our freedom have always been traditions in the Kumeyaay culture. The pow wow at Viejas was another way for everyone—Native and non-Native—to pay tribute to the bravery of our veterans. The Kumeyaay people hold their customs and traditions in highest regard, and pow wows are one of the traditions that continues today. Originally, pow wows were primarily religious ceremonies and celebrations for the coming together of friends and family. Today, pow wows are still about the gathering of families and friends—new or old, near or far—and are traditionally performed in a circle, an important symbol in Indian cultures. Dancers range in age from toddlers to elders and perform several styles of dance. Competitive singing, dancing and drum playing are also a part of the event, which allows for a friendly competition throughout the weekend. The visually stunning grand entry begins each pow wow and is an important part of the ceremony. During the grand entry, all dancers are invited to parade into the arena, showing off their own style and regalia. The pow wow at Viejas welcomed several hundred visitors during the two-day event, and proved to be a beautiful tribute to Native American veterans.  21 Winter 2008

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of The Kumeyaay Way - Winter 2008

The Kumeyaay Way - Winter 2008 Contents Kumeyaay History Looking Back at the River of Tears Keeping the Borders Open for All Kumeyaay Tribal Security—Safety First Cultural Embrace Viejas Tribal Member Rescues Eagle Education for All Future in Their Hands Viejas Pow Wow Honors Native American Veterans Growing Traditions—Viejas Community Garden Remember When

The Kumeyaay Way - Winter 2008

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