This past Saturday, the American Indian Science and Engineering Society hosted the Binaakwe-Giizis Powwow, a Native American celebration of autumn. AISES, one of Michigan Tech’s many organizations, works to promote a better understand of Native American culture here on campus. In the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, the Ojibwa Tribe is working hard to better their status. In 1854, there was a treaty composed between the native tribe and the United States government. While the non-native Americans benefited from it, the Ojibwa Tribe did not. As a result, for the past hundred and fifty years the tribe has lived in poverty. However, today their living standards are increasing and they’re gaining better education, housing, health care and child care. The Powwow that was held on campus helped the community recognize the Ojibwa Tribe and makes them better known to people who haven’t lived up in the Copper Country for very long.
The Powwow had many events happening throughout the day. There were two main performances that had Native American dancing, singing and drumming. The performers wore traditional headdresses along with other natural accessories. The headdresses were beautifully composed of feathers and various beads. When they danced, the feathers bounced gracefully with their momentum. The dancers’ feet perfectly matched up with the beat of the drums. The music wasn’t too fast or slow, but it was the perfect speed for the dancers to glide to. The drumbeats had an earthly and natural sound to them; they were peaceful, yet at times they became intense. The tempo would speed up and the dancers would move faster. Your senses heightened as you grew more engrossed with the music. It turns into a story inside your head, and even though you don’t know the plot, you can feel the events unfolding.
Overall, the main point of the Powwow is to become aware. While we can’t go back in time and change what happened with the Ojibwa Tribe, we can help them better their living conditions. The Native American music performed at the Powwow didn’t need words to communicate the emotions that bloom inside you as you listen because it’s just music from one human being to another. Music is universal. Regardless of culture, everyone can relate to it.
