Tradition Shines At 77th Shinnecock Indian Powwow: Photos, Video

SOUTHAMPTON, NY — The 77th Annual Shinnecock Indian Powwow brought crowds to Southampton this Labor Day weekend for a beloved annual event featuring Native arts, crafts, and food — and a meaningful celebration of time-honored tradition.

Grand entry processions and sunset fire lightings were featured, as were drum and dance contests and dance specials.

"The Shinnecock Indian Powwow is one of the largest Native American gatherings on the East Coast," organizers said. "As we dance upon the earth, we are reminded that our culture and love for one another is the resounding heartbeat that transcends all that we face; wherever we face it. We dance upon our drum. The sound of the drum and our footsteps are recorded year after year within the drum that we dance upon. We may be the only Nation that dances upon its drum."

(Video courtesy Honey Porter)

And, organizers added: "The trees that surround our circle also record our Powwow historical moments within their barks as they grow with the People. We dance with all of our relations, past and present, from nearby and from afar. We welcome home our distant families as well as our guests with open arms and prayers as we share ourselves, our culture, arts and crafts, good food and our ceremonies during each Labor Day weekend."

(Photos courtesy John Neely)

Every day, competitive dancing, guest entertainment, prayers, ceremonial dances, and the acknowledgement of sponsors and visiting dignitaries took place.

"We honor our veterans for protecting this life as we know it," organizers said.

In addition, 100 Native American arts, crafts and food vendors from all over the Americas were onhand.

"Cultural enrichment and the opportunity for cultural education abounds as Native American representatives from every region are available to demonstrate and share their stories to all who ask," organizers said. "This celebration of tradition has been fostered by our community leaders and the Shinnecock Church, to whom we are forever grateful."