Being Respectful at a Native American Powwow

The Native American culture is one that is mystical but yet very fascinating. We should be proud that this culture lives among our borders here in America.

They bring so many unique things and blend it with our own culture. Some of these things have gained worldwide notoriety and popularity.

The Native Americans invented the moccasin. The moccasin is an extremely comfortable type of shoe made out of leather or animal skin.

Because of its material, it is really comfy for anyone to wear. This is why it has become popular to wear, even for many other different cultures!

They also invented the tipi, which is a type of household that they used to live in many years ago. Some tribes even use them today to commemorate their ancestors and pay tribute to them.

These houses are usually made of animal skins and are conical in shape. Their shape enables them to be cool in the summer, but yet they can retain heat in the cold winter months.

Another Native American cultural aspect that has been seen and heard all around the world is the powwow. This is an ancient ritual that they do to get together as tribes and celebrate their spirituality.

A powwow usually consists of a lot of music and dancing. It is a sacred ceremony, but not as sacred as other rituals they perform.

Some people may think this ceremony is closed to the public, but it is not! Anybody, regardless of their race and culture can go to one of these amazing ceremonies and see what it has to offer.

A powwow isn’t just like any other regular social gathering. Because you’ve been invited by a tribe and you are in their territory, there are certain rules and guidelines that need to be followed by anyone who attends.

First and foremost, you always need to be respectful whenever you go to a powwow. This is the most important thing you need to remember.

It may look like a social party at times, but to the actual tribe it is a very spiritual gathering and you yourself need to treat it as such. Here are some of the ways that you can pay respect to those who have invited you.

Some rituals, costumes, or mannerisms of the Native Americans may look silly or funny to some people, but you always need to remember to never point at them or make fun of them. This can get you into a lot of trouble!

This doesn’t show very much respect, and in a sense you are basically mocking their way of life. If you continue to do this, you will see very quickly that the Native Americans will not want you there!

You also need to remember to not take any pictures unless you have permission from a certain person. Usually, when a formal dance has commenced, you are allowed to take pictures but there are some other times where you are not allowed.

If you see a dancer or someone that is dressed up off by themselves when they are not dancing, you need to ask their permission before you take a picture of them. This could also be very disrespectful if you do it without asking them.

Also remember to never show up at a powwow when you Levitra or any of your family members or friends are drunk or high. This is very disrespectful.

Just think if you had a very important party that you were throwing for your friends, and one of your buddies decides to show up at your house drunk and make a ruckus. You would be very offended!

It is the same with the Native American powwow. It is very rude to come onto their property when your mind is not all there.

You might say or do something that will further embarrass the tribe, and even more, it will embarrass you! What’s worse, is that you might get in trouble.

If you are caught drinking or using drugs on the premises, you might be escorted out by security and asked never to come back. Do yourself a favor and come to this amazing event totally clean!

Author Bio: Jack R. Landry is a fashion designer who has been in the industry since 1992. He specializes in designing shoes, shoe accessories and moccasin.

Contact Info:
Jack R. Landry
JackRLandry@gmail.com
http://www.TheMoccasinShop.com

Category: Culture and Society/Social Issues
Keywords: moccasin

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