A Conversation with Karen

How did I get started going to pow wows?
A Choctaw doctoral student at the School of Music encouraged me to attend the UM pow wow held every April

What was my first reaction to the powwow?
The first thing that captured my attention was the beautiful drumming. The rhythm and the mellow sound of the drum was thrilling. The colorful outfits, the dancing and the beadworkat the booths were the next items to catch my eye.

What was the most memorable event at my first pow wow?
The most memorable event for me was meeting Chief and Mrs. Bushyhead are Cherokee from North Carolina. They were very friendly to me and to my parents. It was Mrs. Bushyhead who encouraged me to learn about my Choctaw heritage. She could tell that it was my first pow wow and she made a special point to be very supportative. She knew that I was being led back to my native roots - eventhough I grew up knowing that we were part indian, I knew nothing the culture. My grandmother grew up during the time when it was best to never mention it!! Her teachings were underground and behind locked doors!!

Why did I take an interest in dancing?
After learning more about the heritage of my Choctaw and Tunica ancestors, I wanted to honor them in a way that was meaningful. As I watched other Native Americans taking an active part in the pow wow, I too, wanted to celebrate my heritage. For me, dancing has become an expression of my pride in my heritage. It has also become a way for me to connect with my ancestors - I feel very close to my grandmother when I dance. (I also attend highland games and have learned some Scot dances - I also feel close to my Scot grandfather when I dance the highland fling).

What is my dress like?
When I dance in my traditional dress, I have taken the items from both of my tribes. My dress is typical to the Tunica tribe which is a long skirt with ribbon trim at the hem and a long-sleeved blouse with ribbon trim on the sleeves and across the bodice. My apron is the traditional Choctaw long white apron with red cloth applique diamonds. My necklace is the traditional Choctaw beaded design of interlacing diamonds.

Why do I attend pow wows?
It is my opportunity to enjoy my Native American heritage in a public gathering. I enjoy the music,dancing and the vendors. I can openly enjoy and honor my heritage. (I also love attending highland games, German, and French festivals.)

What would I like to tell young people about powwows?
I would like to encourage all children to learn and to appreciate the Native American culture because it is a part of our American culture. Native Americans have contributed a lot to North American society and they should be honored for their contribution. I would encourage all Native American children to learn about their heritage because all of the tribes have a rich culture with their own history, language, dance, art, and religion.

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