The Annual Wunk Sheek Pow-wow, organized by UW-Madison students, brings together Native Americans from many different tribes and bands and spectators from around the Madison community. Even though some dancers and drums came from other states, at its core, the pow-wow is an opportunity for members of Wisconsin’s American Indian community to gather and celebrate. Grand entries will begin at 1pm and 7pm.
On Friday, May 4 from 3-5pm in room 159 of the Education Building, the School of Education’s American Indian Curriculum Services will host a program called “Pow-wow 101” designed to give participants basic knowledge of pow-wow culture. Topics will include the importance of veterans, pow-wow drums and songs, traditional dress, the evolution of pow-wow dance, and etiquette for spectators.
The Wunk Sheek Pow-wow will take place on Saturday, May 5 and all are welcome to attend. Vendors will sell shirts, flutes, books and other wares. Drum groups will honor veterans through song, and a feast at 5pm will provide faculty, staff and students a chance to connect with each other and their relatives in an informal setting over traditional foods. The event will also include many educational opportunities for pow-wow spectators.