Attend a pow wow

“I’m 30 years old, and I went to my first pow-wow today. I’ve been reconnecting to my heritage for the past few years and today’s celebration blew me away. As I was watching the dancers, I felt the steady drums settle into my chest and before I knew it the tears were flowing. From the stories I’ve gathered from whose left of my elders, my great grandparents lived a life of fear and hid their native traditions from both their own children and American society. Seeing people smiling and dancing freely shook something inside me. Even more astounding, for the first time I felt like I belonged, and felt safe. I often struggle with that sense of belonging, as I’m sure many of us do, when it comes to mixed heritage. But at the pow wow everyone looks so different yet we are all united. Even typing this I’m tearing up a bit and holding tight to this feeling. I can’t wait for the next one!”