Scenes From the 2nd Annual Pášxapa Powwow
A celebration of Native culture and community
Photography by Patrick Record
On Saturday, May 3, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) and Whitman College celebrated the second annual Pášx̣apa Powwow at Sherwood Athletic Center.
This vibrant event brought together tribal nations from across the Pacific Northwest for dancing, drumming, singing and special competitions.
A warm welcome. Tribal leaders and Whitman College representatives opened the powwow with prayers and remarks. From left: Pášxapa Powwow committee member Shane Laib, Whitman College Special Assistant to the President for Native American Outreach Jeanine Gordon, Whitman College President Sarah Bolton, and CTUIR member Fred Hill Sr.
The Grand Entry. Audience members stood for the Grand Entry—an opening ceremony in which tribal leaders, flagbearers and dancers enter the arena in a gradually growing circle.
Celebrating the generations. From Golden Age (55+) to Tiny Tots (6 and under), dancers of all ages participated throughout the day. Clockwise from top left: Lowell Pierre, Aiden Wolf ’26 and Wicanhpi Pratt.
Building bridges. Šináata Scholar Aiden Wolf ’26 is a junior Theater major at Whitman College and an enrolled member of the CTUIR.
Joining voices. North Hill Singers (bottom), a youth powwow drum group based in Pendleton, Oregon, participated in the drumming, along with other singers and drummers.
Celebrating Native artistry. Vendors sold artwork, crafts and food to powwow attendees.
A meaninful heritage. Each dancer’s regalia has special meaning and cultural and spiritual connections, Gordon says. Regalia may be passed down from generation to generation and represents hours of investment, planning and work.
Thank you to all the elders, dancers, drummers, organizers, volunteers and attendees who made this memorable day possible.