Christopher Lomahquahu
ICT
PHOENIX — Indigenous performers showcased their talent at the 33rd annual World Hoop Dance contest held at the Heard Museum in Phoenix on Feb. 17-18. The springtime event has a tradition of drawing large crowds to watch hoop dance competitors demonstrate their talents from all over Indian Country.
Josiah Enriquez, Pueblo of Pojoaque, Navajo, Isleta Pueblo, came away with the top prize in the adult category, after two-days of performances. Overall, the event hosted 115 competitors ranging from 1-year-old to 68 years of age, from as far as 2,903 miles away.
“Hoop dance contests are basically a big family reunion — it’s the way I like to see it because everybody knows each other,” said Enriquez, reflecting on this year’s hoop dance competition.
He said, “The vibe of being there and seeing my family and the people that supported me through all of it — even to this day right now. It still feels really surreal.” Enriquez, who has been hoop dancing for 13 years said a lot of preparation went into the competition, which took place in front of a record crowd of 7,500 visitors.