By HDN staff
Montanans often forget they are part of Americas great melting pot. Ethnic diversity is not as apparent as in more populated areas of our county.
Sometimes this blind view allows us to isolate ourselves from cultural events that would otherwise celebrate such diversity.
Since 1964, the Rocky Boys Indian Reservation has celebrated its culture through activities from ancient dance rituals to modern fun and games at the annual powwow. The people of Rocky Boy present this gift openly to the people of the Hi-Line, Montana, and the rest of the country, welcoming them each year to the festivities.
This years Rocky Boys Pow Wow once again offers all the pageantry starting with the Camp Day on Wednesday and the Youth Pow Wow on Thursday.
The grand entry begins on Friday, giving spectators a glimpse of the past, and events continue through Sunday. The nationally-recognized Southern Cree Drum Group will be host drum for groups providing traditional music for the events.
Along with sharing their culture, the participants of the Rocky Boys Pow Wow also set a strong example for others to follow by making the celebration a drug- and alcohol-free event.
The committee should also be commended for its support of the youth at such a gathering. Not only has it set aside a whole evening of activities just for the younger powwow participants, but has a strong leader in Daryl Wright II, the 13-year-old president of the 1999 Pow Wow Committee.
Attracting visitors from not only across Montana, but from across the country and Canada, as well, the Rocky Boys Pow Wow has a strong summer influence on the economy of the reservation, Havre, and the Hi-Line. Many business people of the area do not take this influence lightly and embrace the opportunity to support the powwow. Those who dont support it need to take a hard look at their reasoning.
Take the time to share in our neighbors celebration of history and tradition by attending the 35th annual Rocky Boys Pow Wow.
