CSUN to Celebrate Native American Culture at Annual Powwow

A young dancer from last year's celebration. Photo courtesy of Scott Andrews.

The public is invited to join California State University, Northridge faculty and students as they celebrate and honor Native American culture on Saturday, Nov. 29, at the university. ­­

CSUN’s 31st Annual Powwow is scheduled to take place from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on the Chicana/o House Lawn on Plummer Street, east of Etiwanda Avenue.

“The CSUN Powwow is a way for the university to maintain its presence in the native community in the San Fernando Valley,” said Scott Andrews, director of CSUN’s American Indian studies program and powwow coordinator for the past six years. “Powwows are just one of many ways that native people in Los Angeles stay connected socially and culturally. They serve to educate nonnative people about dynamic and beautiful American Indian cultures in the 21st century.”

American Indian singers, drummers and dancers will gather for a grand entry scheduled to take place at 12:30 p.m. The grand entry will feature dancers entering an arena in a formal procession. The national anthem and traditional American Indian songs will be performed to honor the flag and veterans. A variety of powwow dances will continue throughout the day, including dances that will invite and encourage audience participation.

The Host Drums will include Northern: Blood River and Southern: Sooner Nation. Bobby WhiteBird, the master of ceremony, will accompany Vic Chavez, the arena director, in presenting the Head Man, Johnny Nieto; the Head Woman, Kristi Smith; the Head Boy, Zion Fox, and the Head Girl, Katianna Warren.

In addition to American Indian music and dance, there will be American Indian arts and crafts activities at multiple children’s tables throughout the day. Vendors also will be selling authentic American Indian jewelry, textiles and rugs.

Admission is free. Attendees are invited to bring an unwrapped toy to donate for the Pine Ridge Christmas Drive.

Parking is $6 and daily permits may be purchased at kiosks or information booths. For more information, call (818) 677-5030 or email aisacsun@yahoo.com.

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