Ess-Kah-Po Goodwill PowWow
held in Orofino
By Melvin Joye
People of all nationalities
were treated to an awesome display of native American dancing at the annual
Ess-Kah-Po Goodwill PowWow held at the
A tribute to an Ess-Kah-Po who
participated in the War of 1877 from the Wallowa Band of Nez Perce by the name
of Johnson Hoyt who elected to live on the Cavendish Grade until his death.
Before his death he was recognized as the last survivor living from the War of
1877. His descendents were honored by the committee with a special dance and
gifts.
Then social dancing followed
giving the audience a preview of what was to come later at the sponsors dance
contest for special age groups and different dances.
Saturday contest were a blend
of fantastic colors with intricate dance steps for each type of dancing giving
the judges for each contest a difficult choice as to who won the contest.
Several times extra songs were needed to eventually pick a winner, the dancers
were that good.
The initial purpose of our
PowWow was to cultivate better relations with our non-Indian neighbors by
formatting our PowWow with hand picked members to present our views, history,
culture, roots, berries herbs and spirituality religion, in other words, show
that we are not so difficult from our white neighbors and open doors to a better
understanding and a forum of communication so we know each other better.
The desire for an avenue of
communication is there. All we need to do is take advantage of the opportunity
presented to us. We as tribal members cling very tightly to our history and pass
it on so it’s not lost forever.
Those of you who missed this
PowWow will want to mark your calendar for next years PowWow so as to not miss
viewing native dancing at its best.
From comments from area white
people who want to attend and experience Nez Perce culture often feel
intimidated going to Lapwai and Kamiah dances and ceremonies but this PowWow
held in your own backyard is set up for you, our white neighbors.
One woman who works at a local
grocery store said her feet were keeping time with the drums, so our PowWow has
an effect on anyone who experiences the spirit of our dances.
Next year I hope to see more people from Orofino.