Akwesasne Powwow 2023 Delights Again

The annual Akwesasne Powwow was held this past weekend under clear blue skies on Saturday and misty and grey skies on Sunday. Neither the heat or the cool air could dampen the excitement of "where the best drummers, dancers and artisans of the region come together on the shores by the beautiful St. Lawrence River, A'nowara'ko:wa Arena" located on Kawehno:ke, Akwesasne.

Dancers, singers, drummers, artisans, and food vendors traveled from afar meeting their local counterparts from Akwesasne. The two-day event brought out the best of basketmakers, beaders, painters, and crafts people. Where everything from homegrown wild rice, wild game such as venison, moose meat and walleye, the very best fried bread on the planet was to be found at the Akwesasne Powwow.

The Akwesasne Powwow Committee did an incredible job of carrying on the longstanding tradition created years ago by Larry King, Romaine Mitchell, and Bonnie Mitchell. Their years of service to the community of Akwesasne and to the powwow community, laid the foundation for this year's success. As powwows are not part of the Mohawk culture and traditions, the Akwesasne Powwow was created as a way to 'extend our hand in friendship to our neighbors and Nations' from across Turtle Island.

This year Kevin Syrette served as head drum judge, Jordan Whiteeye as arena director, Black Bear served as host drum and Young Tribe served as co-host drum. A special performance was given by Theresa "Bear Fox" who sang four beautiful songs in Kanieńkehá and English. Through her words and music, her original songs illustrate life growing up in a loving family of fourteen.

Seen through the eyes of Indian Time photographer - MJKS, here are the photos captured at the Akwesasne Powwow 2023 of dancers participating in the Men' Traditional Dance, Men's Fancy Dance, Men's Grass Dance, Smoke Dance, Women's Traditional Dance, Women's Jingle Dance and the Women's Fancy Dance.