"Powwows carry on traditions that sustain us as Anishinaabe people. They are part of the continuity of Mino Bimaadiziiwin, the living of a good life. At each Grand Entry the sight of the dancers, drums, spectators and people who work so hard to make the powwow happen reminds each of us that we are a part of something much larger than ourselves.

During Grand Entry the women’s traditional dancers lead all of the female dancers into the powwow circle. Traditional dancers have a distinct style that is understated, dignified and quite graceful. Their steps reflect their demeanor, creating a slight sway to shawls, fringes and the hemlines of their skirts. The other female dancers follow: jingle dress dancers, fancy shawl dancers and little children. When all of the dancers have entered and the first song has finished, the powwow circle is complete.

Within the group of women’s traditional dancers are ladies in buckskin dresses as well as ladies in cloth dresses, both solid colors and floral calico prints. The “buckskin ladies” dance at the head of the line. They are acknowledged with this honor for many reasons: one is that they are wearing clothing made of the same materials and in much the same way as that of our ancestors. The wearing of buckskin continues Ojibwe tradition and values that tie together hand, heart and the world around us to the unseen world and the Great Spirit."

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Linda Grover: Clothing tells part of Native American tradition (The Duluth Budgeteer News 7/21)