Atlanta’s First Voices Powwow Celebrates Indigenous Culture

Atlanta recently hosted its fourth annual First Voices Powwow in Little Five Points, a vibrant two-day celebration that drew hundreds to experience the rich traditions of Indigenous communities. This significant event showcased Native dance, art, music, and storytelling, fostering a powerful connection between attendees and the ancestral heritage of the land.

A Weekend of Cultural Immersion in Little Five Points

The free outdoor event, presented by Zintkala Zi Powwow and led by Buffalo Yellowbird of the Oglala Lakota Nation, transformed the soccer field behind Seven Stages along Austin Avenue NE into a bustling hub of activity. Held on a Sunday, the Powwow provided families with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Native traditions, featuring everything from traditional foods and music to engaging storytelling and hands-on cultural experiences.

Dancing, Artistry, and Storytelling Take Center Stage

Visitors were treated to an array of demonstrations and performances. Over 50 dancers rotated through the circle, representing “eight different categories between the adults and the children,” as noted by Yellowbird, who encouraged audience participation. Vendors showcased exquisite Native artwork and handmade items, including Navajo silversmithing by Niles Aseret of NezB’s Indian Jewelry, and traditional crafts from Turtle Island Trading. Muscogee Creek elder William Harjo captivated audiences by crafting and playing flutes, joined by the Little Five Points Flute Circle for demonstrations and group jams. The event also included special ceremonies honoring veterans, first responders, and community service workers, reinforcing the Powwow’s spirit of belonging.

Seven Stages’ Commitment to Indigenous Communities

A notable aspect of this year’s Powwow was the explicit commitment from event partner Seven Stages. Co-founder Heidi Howard highlighted the theater’s long-standing presence on Muscogee Creek land, emphasizing their dedication to “figure out what reparation looks like for all.” In a tangible step towards this, Seven Stages now includes a land use fee on every ticket sold, directly contributing to Native communities. This partnership underscores a growing awareness and support for Indigenous land rights and cultural preservation within Atlanta.

Ancient Wisdom for Modern Lives

William Harjo opened Sunday’s program with flute music, prayers, and traditional Native stories. He explained the profound purpose behind these narratives: “I usually tell old native stories. It kind of like relates to people’s behavior, and the whole idea through these stories is to kind of like improve your lifestyle or change your behavior if you are not living right.” This emphasis on wisdom passed down through generations offered attendees not just entertainment, but valuable life lessons rooted in Indigenous philosophy.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the First Voices Powwow?
  It’s an annual two-day cultural festival in Atlanta, celebrating Native American traditions through dance, music, art, and storytelling, designed for families to experience Indigenous culture.
• Who organizes the Powwow?
  The event is presented by Zintkala Zi Powwow and led by Buffalo Yellowbird of the Oglala Lakota Nation.
• Where does the Powwow take place?
  It’s held outdoors in Little Five Points, specifically on the large soccer field behind Seven Stages along Austin Avenue NE.
• How does the event support Indigenous communities?
  Beyond cultural celebration, partners like Seven Stages contribute to Native communities through initiatives like land use fees, acknowledging and giving back to the Indigenous people whose land the neighborhood occupies.
• Can attendees participate in the dancing?
  Yes, organizers actively encourage audience interaction and participation in intertribal dancing, aiming for everyone to feel a sense of belonging.

As the First Voices Powwow aims to grow each year, it offers Atlantans an invaluable opportunity to connect directly with Indigenous artists, elders, and tribal citizens, fostering understanding and appreciation for the rich and living cultures of Native America right here in our community.

Atlanta Powwow Celebrates Indigenous Culture