The ASU Powwow: A Cultural Haven for Generations
The Arizona State University Powwow, now in its 36th year, is more than just a vibrant display of song and dance; it’s a crucial gathering for sharing and preserving centuries-old traditions. This year’s event, held in early April at ASU’s Desert Financial Arena, drew participants from across the country, creating an atmosphere rich with cultural exchange.
Attendees were greeted by the rhythmic beats of drum groups from various tribal nations, and the gym floor was a colorful tapestry of traditional regalia and jingling dresses. This annual celebration serves as a welcoming space for Native students, who make up 1.06% of ASU’s undergraduate population, according to a report by the Arizona Board of Regents.
Marshall Baker, a student at ASU and a powwow dancer, embodies this heritage. “I’ve been powwowing since before I could walk,” he shared. As a grass dancer, a tradition passed down through his family, Baker finds a significant connection to his roots through these gatherings…