Native American veterans carry flag that was at ground zero on 9/11.. Photo Courtesy Ardis McRae.
RAPID CITY, SOUTH DAKOTA -- The Rushmore Plaza Civic Center in Rapid City was once again the host to the annual Native American gathering, the He Sapa Wacipi na Oskate. Drawing in dancers, singers and spectators from as far away as Czechoslovakia, the powwow continues to grow and evolve year after year. The theme for this year’s powwow was “Empowering Our Youth”. Led by the powwow committee president, Stephan Yellow Hawk of Rapid City, the powwow took on a new level of recognition in the powwow world, pulling in well-known drum groups and champion dancers from several different tribes from across the United States and Canada. Under the direction of co-arena directors, Rusty Gillette and MJ Bull Bear, recognized champion dancers and singers, the dance competition followed an organized and brisk pace, leaving plenty of time for honor songs and special presentations. One such presentation was the unfolding of one of the 9/11 flags, recovered at Ground Zero in 2001. Several Akicita or Veterans were on hand to present the flag to the people at the powwow, dancing around the arena with the flag, while announcer, Chris Eagle Hawk, read the names of fallen Lakota warriors from all branches of service, wars and conflicts. Following the honoring song, the flag was refolded and then placed in a prominent spot on the announcers stand throughout the remainder of the powwow. Other events associated with the powwow included a style show featuring Native American designers as well as models; emceed by Pawnee artist, Bunky Echo-Hawk, of Oklahoma. A handgames tournament, which is becoming a staple at many of the national as well as local powwows, was held in the Rushmore Hall at the Civic Center. An archery tournament, a new event, was also held in the Civic Center North Hall. The Black Hills Fine Arts Avenue has always been a big draw for the spectators, as many local and regional Native American artists present their work to be judged not only by a panel of judges for Best In Show, but also by everyone in attendance for the People’s Choice award. Other works of art, including jewelry and beadwork were on hand to be admired as well as purchased. The young woman selected to represent the He Sapa Wacipi Na Oskate is called the He Sapa Win, formerly called Miss Black Hills Powwow. In 2010, Brianne Herman was selected to carry the title for one year, concluding her reign on Saturday night of the powwow. Out of three contestants, and one three way tie, the newly crowned He Sapa Win is Natisha Wagner, who will represent the organization across the country at many of the larger powwows, as well as at community events and gatherings. One of the biggest draws to the powwow this year was the host drum, Bear Creek, from Saulet Ste. Marie, Ontario, and Canada. Well known throughout Indian country for their songs, Bear Creek drew their own fan base to the powwow, which brought other drums and dancers who had not before attended the He Sapa Wacipi. This year’s drum contest winner, The Boyz, from Minnesota, also recognized champion singers, will host next year’s powwow. The 2011 Head Staff included Ruben Little Head and Chris Eagle Hawk as Eyapahas, or announcers; Rusty Gillette and MJ Bull Bear as co-arena directors; Whitney Rencountre II as Head Singing Judge. (Contact Karin Eagle Baca at staffwriter2@nsweekly.com)
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