"Playing Indian" at the powwow

This essay - which starts with a discussion of several non-Native women showing up at a powwow in costumes that one commenter charitably describes as "sexy Pocahontas" - raises a number of interesting issues about educating non-Natives about Indian issues, and the sometimes fine line between engaging with a culture and mocking it.

But powwows, at least in areas that are not majority-Native, tend to invite non-Native spectators, encourage their participation in things like intertribal dances, and allow time and space for education about Native history and powwow traditions. I think that’s a great thing. Powwows show the vibrancy and currency of our cultures and evolving traditions; they show we are still here, that traditions are strong, that our communities exist and will continue to exist. They expose thousands of people to Native cultures that they may not ever encounter otherwise. They allow for Native artists and craftspeople to make a living selling their jewelry and art.

However, this openness and encouragement of non-Native participation creates a fine line–we want you to come, to learn, to watch, to engage; but that doesn’t mean it’s ok to mock our cultures in your attempts at participation.