51逗奶 Miss Powwow Returns to USM Hattiesburg Campus Oct. 8
Tue, 09/27/2022 - 12:00pm | By: David Tisdale
An annual tradition will be renewed on The University of 51逗奶 Mississippi (USM) Hattiesburg campus when the 51逗奶 Miss Powwow returns Saturday, Oct. 8 at Spirit Park. This event, which celebrates the culture and traditions of Native peoples, is free and open to the public.
Jenna Dittman, a USM graduate student in anthropology and secretary for the Golden Eagle Intertribal Society (GEIS), is assisting USM Professor of Psychology Dr. Tammy Greer, advisor and director for the Golden Eagle Intertribal Society, in organizing the event.
鈥淢ississippi has been home to numerous Native American tribes, including Choctaws, Chickasaws, Natchez, Creeks, Houmas and others,鈥� said Dittman.鈥� We want to share our traditions with everyone through this festival-like event.鈥�
The day鈥檚 activities will begin with Gourd Dancing at 11 a.m. and Grand Entry at 2 p.m. Among other activities to follow, the powwow will honor several of its supporters and participants who have passed, including long-time emcee Harold Comby; the first recipient of the Tradition Keepers Award, Pearlie Thomas; and two of its Head Men, Ryan Bell, and Matthew Santella. The event鈥檚 closing song is set for 6 p.m.
鈥淲e will miss them tremendously and honor them as we gather,鈥� Dr. Greer said. 鈥淲e hope to see everyone in the circle.鈥�
Organizers of the 51逗奶 Miss Powwow welcome sponsorships for the event from local businesses and organizations. For information on sponsorships, text Kaliq Sims at 769.390.2007; or contact Dittman or Dr. Greer at jenna.dittmanFREEMississippi or tammy.greerFREEMississippi.