Wednesday, September 4, 2013

Indians in the Valley










Pow Wow's are pretty popular here in the Valley with Angel's Camp, Valley Springs, Jackson, and frankly the dozens of Indian towns around here! I have been wanting to attend a pow wow for quite some time and this year I finally had an opportunity.

Of course bringing my camera wasn't optional for me, beautiful headdresses and dancing, the camera was a MUST! This seemed to become a stumbling block at an Indian pow wow though! Many Native American Indians hold to tradition and do not like to be photographed. I respect that. I deleted the first group of shots I got due to the fact that you are not supposed to photograph the ground being blessed, and I didn't know what was going on till someone explained it to me. Luckily after that, photos were permitted.


It was a beautiful but HOT 98`, but everyone wore their traditional outfits for their own tribe and danced to live drums and Indian songs. I thought it was inspiring to witness such pride. I don't really know anything about my own culture and I personally got to witness a group of people that was strong in their beliefs, culture, traditions, and language. Old and young alike were present and ready to party for 2 days!



UOP hosts this pow wow every year on labor day and I believe a great time was had by all. I definitely had a wonderful time talking to people and seeing all the different dance styles, and outfits. Beside all the traditional pow wow activity, there were Indian jewelry, shirts, art and food to enjoy. This event is free to the public and great for the entire family.  I had a wonderful time capturing some wonderful people on camera! Hope to see you there next year!

"It is not the honor that you take with you,
 but the heritage you leave behind." Branch Rickey


Always inspired,
Cameo Rose
www.cameorosephotography.com
(209)623-3302