You're Invited to the Reconciliation Powwow 2024

The Indigenous Student Alliance will host Pacific's first Reconciliation Powwow on May 4th to recognize and honor the Native American children impacted by the Forest Grove Indian Training School. A powwow is a traditional gathering where Native American people come together to celebrate, meet old friends, and make new ones. It is a time to share tradition, culture, and talent. All are welcome; the event is free and open to the public.

Stoller Gym doors will open Saturday, May 4 at noon. Vendors will be on site selling food, arts, crafts, and other goods. The first Grand Entry, where all dancers enter the gym single-file behind an honor guard, will begin at 1 p.m. A second Grand Entry will take place at 7:00 p.m. and the event will end at 10 p.m. If you've never attended a powwow, now is your chance.

"There are no spectators at a powwow. Everyone is considered a participant, even if you don't do anything but lend your presence. Everyone has a place in the circle of people." - Murton McCluskey, EdD.

That said, unless you are a dancer, or you are invited to join in the dancing, please keep clear of the main dance area. Listen to the MC for instructions. No smoking or alcohol is permitted. Please do not touch or disturb the dancer's regalia, but do ask respectful questions and learn as much as you can. Powwows are not like other events. Stops and starts are frequent. There will be giveaways, exhibition dances from our indigenous cousins, and tiny tots showing off their dance skills for the first time. We ask that you be patient, respectful, and most of all have fun.

To learn more about powwows, drums, songs, and dancing, check out our Powwow Manual.

See you at the Powwow!