Join us in this episode as Gregory McGhee sits down with us to delve into the intricacies of powwow etiquette and traditions. Greg shares his journey from a small town in Atmore, Alabama, to embracing his Native American heritage and participating in powwows. We discuss the significance of powwows as cultural gatherings, emphasizing the importance of respect for dancers, regalia, and traditions. The conversation explores the roles of emcees, arena directors, and head dancers, shedding light on the intense competitions and drum contests. The episode not only educates listeners about powwow customs but also highlights the importance of fellowship and respect within the powwow community!

[1:17] - Gregory shares some background information about himself.

[3:33] - After attending an all-Indian university, Greg developed a deep appreciation for the community and traditions.

[6:16] - Greg continues to learn from powwows even though he’s been to many.

[7:59] - What is a powwow?

[10:36] - Last year's 50th powwow marked a significant milestone, showcasing growth and community spirit.

[12:18] - Greg emphasizes the importance of showing respect at powwows.

[14:16] - Hear why Greg prefers the word “regalia” over “costume.”

[17:11] - When in doubt, ask for permission respectfully; inquire about cultural aspects.

[18:53] - Greg reiterates that respect and reverence are vital at powwows, especially during moments like eagle feather drops.

[19:54] - Eagle whistles symbolize honor, granted for passion, with significant responsibilities.

[21:03] - Greg adds that being whistled with an eagle signifies profound respect and fulfillment.

[23:38] - What does the eagle whistle sound like?

[25:49] - What are the responsibilities of an emcee?

[28:48] - Greg explains the role of the arena director.

[29:49] - What is the grand entry?

[30:47] - The eagle symbolizes unity and strength in Native American culture.

[33:24] - Greg discusses how flag songs unite tribes, honoring ancestors and preserving cultural legacies.

[35:38] - The emcee guides the audience during the grand entry, emphasizing respect and participation.

[37:17] - The arena area is reserved for dancers and families, with spectators using designated seating like bleachers.

[39:28] - Learn about intertribal dances.

[42:38] - Greg explains that the head man and head lady serve as lead dancers.

[45:54] - Dance and drum contests at powwows can be incredibly intense and anxiety-inducing.

[48:41] - Experienced judges select diverse dancers, ensuring fairness and competition integrity.

[50:08] - Dancers are evaluated based on symmetry, rhythm, and movement consistency.

[52:37] - The drum contest is an especially exciting aspect of the powwow.

[54:49] - Drum contests involve distinct northern and southern styles.

[57:48] - Drum contests' formats vary at different powwows, leading to intense judging and competition.

[1:00:03] - Greg emphasizes that maintaining focus, especially during dance leads, is crucial.

[1:02:58] - Greg has learned that a lot of vendors are willing to barter and/or trade.

In this episode of our Native American Heritage Month series, we are so happy to welcome Alex Alvarez, an educator, artist, and seasoned powwow enthusiast. Alex shares his lifelong journey into the powwow tradition, tracing his roots back to his Creek heritage. Powwows, he explains, have been his sanctuary, a place of belonging and celebration of Native American culture. He describes the evolution of powwow drum contests, from modest prizes a decade ago to today's highly competitive events offering substantial cash rewards, and he emphasizes the importance of respect and tradition in powwows, from the structured patterns of drumming to the significance of tobacco offerings and the sacredness of the drum. Through insightful anecdotes and wisdom, Alex sheds light on the intricacies of powwow culture, revealing the heartwarming mentorship and mutual respect that keep this ancient tradition alive and thriving.

[0:41] - Learn a little bit about Alex.

[1:47] - What does Alex do for a living?

[3:46] - Powwows embody evolving Native American culture, uniting diverse groups in celebration and adaptability.

[4:56] - Hear about Alex's The Boys drum group which showcases evolving powwow styles.

[8:21] - Alex breaks down the difference between southern style and northern style drumming.

[11:28] - Traditional dances like chicken and grass emerged in the 1990s, diversifying powwow styles.

[14:22] - Alex reveals who was in his group.

[16:13] - Alex reflects on memorable moments from powwows in the early 2000s, including brainstorming amusing group names.

[18:05] - Learn how the name "Medicine Tail,” inspired by a dream, was born, symbolizing cultural exploration beyond the reservation.

[21:28] - Powwow songs follow a structured pattern, incorporating soloist leads, verse body, and breaks.

[23:22] - Alex asserts that drums are the heartbeat of a powwow.

[26:05] - Powwow singing expands to word songs, featuring diverse languages like Lakota, Cree, and Anishinaabe, showcasing cultural richness and creativity.

[27:09] - Alex points out how important tempo is in powwow singing.

[27:59] - Alex finds writing songs in Greek to be very difficult.

[30:02] - Certain powwow groups incorporate women, not as drummers but as harmonizers.

[33:59] - Alex argues that the cleanliness of the space is crucial in drum contests.

[36:25] - Coordinating the Southern dance competition at the 2020 Gathering of Nations involved over 100 judges, requiring careful management.

[37:39] - Being a head judge is a sacrifice, as it takes a lot of time away from family.

[39:28] - Alex asserts that the role of a drum keeper demands adherence to strict rules and deep respect.

[41:36] - Gratitude for drum groups is expressed through gestures like handshakes, photos, and placing offerings on drums.

[44:13] - Learn about how offering tobacco to drum groups symbolizes respect and is a cherished tradition.

[46:00] - What is the responsibility of the drum group?

[48:31] - Learning to drum often begins young, passed through families or self-taught using recordings and online resources.

[52:09] - Alex adds that nurturing youth drum groups ensures the vibrant future of the powwow tradition.

[55:33] - In powwows, drummers share music, advice, and knowledge, fostering a supportive tradition.

Join us today as we sit down with Mindy Jackson to delve into the fascinating world of the Princess Contest in the Poarch Creek Indian community. Mindy, a former participant herself, shares her insights on the evolution of the contest, shedding light on the rigorous preparations contestants undergo. From intricate traditional arts like patchwork and beadwork to mastering the Muskogee language, these young ambassadors dedicate themselves to representing their tribe. Mindy emphasizes the importance of family support and the cultural department's pivotal role in shaping these young leaders. Contrary to misconceptions, the Princess Contest isn't just a beauty pageant; it's a platform for preserving tribal heritage, fostering pride, and instilling a deep sense of cultural identity. Join us as we uncover the rich tapestry of tradition, talent, and tenacity that defines the Princess Contest in the Poarch Creek Indian community!

[0:38] - Mindy shares a little bit of background information about herself.

[2:08] - What are the requirements for running for the Princess Contest?

[2:53] - Mindy explains how one goes about applying for the contest.

[5:08] - Traditional attire is dress, ribbons, apron, shawl, accessories, and moccasins.

[5:56] - How are judges chosen?

[8:36] - Contestants acquire valuable knowledge, including history, art, and Muskogee language.

[10:42] - Mindy shares that contestants often connect and form deep bonds.

[11:37] - What do the winners of the contest win?

[12:55] - Mindy reflects on the purpose and importance of the competition.

[14:27] - Ambassadors travel to powwows, representing their tribe, attending meetings, and promoting cultural heritage.

[15:58] - Ambassadors network and build relationships.

[16:18] - What are ambassadors expected to do the day of the contest?

[17:27] - It is emphasized that the competition is not just a beauty contest.

[19:45] - All aspects of attire are handmade.

[21:33] - The culture department educates princesses on history, language, art, and traditional skills.

[24:05] - Princesses uphold dignity, serve as role models, and represent the tribe.

[27:48] - This tradition did not start until 1970, so it’s still relatively new.

Join us today as we sit down with Ding Ding, the planning and events coordinator for the tribe. We discuss the intricacies of planning the Poarch Creek powwow, shedding light on the behind-the-scenes efforts that make this event one of the largest powwows in the southeastern United States. Ding Ding also shares insights into the historical significance of the powwow, emphasizing its deep sentimental value and cultural importance to the Poarch Creek tribe. The conversation delves into the meticulous planning involved, from selecting head staff and organizing drawings to accommodating vendors and spectators. We also highlight the involvement of local churches, the challenges faced in preserving traditions, and the importance of intertribal relationships.

[0:23] - Today’s guest is Ding Ding!

[1:07] - Ding Ding shares some background information about himself.

[2:49] - Learn how the powwow holds deep sentimental value for Ding Ding.

[4:15] - Preparations for the power event are meticulous, involving selecting staff and attracting participants with substantial prizes.

[5:23] - What does Ding Ding look for in selecting head staff?

[6:26] - Ding Ding feels that emcees don’t get enough credit for all the hard work that they do.

[7:14] - November marks the rough start of event preparations, including ground setup, vendor spaces, and weather concerns.

[8:04] - Hear about the process of building the new arena.

[10:22] - The powwow dance area grew from a small spot behind the school to a large pavilion.

[12:29] - The powwow upholds fairness, honoring effort and dedication regardless of participant numbers.

[14:31] - Ding Ding discusses his support staff.

[16:49] - Ding Ding talks about the importance of the police department maintaining order and the police department ensuring safety.

[18:35] - Churches, while vital initially, face challenges but still support community events.

[21:00] - Preserving traditions relies on youth motivation to ensure cultural continuity.

[23:56] - Hear about how Houston and John Arthur McGee initiated the barbecue tradition, now carried by their grandsons.

[26:20] - Ding Ding is expecting a lot of visitors this year.

[26:39] - How does one go about setting up a booth?

[29:39] - Ding Ding encourages us to visit the stall dance, experience Greek culture, and enjoy food and fun.

[31:37] - What accommodations will there be for people with disabilities?

[33:15] - Ding Ding offers some closing comments.

Today, we're continuing our conversation about the Consolidated School. James and Benjamin Colbert join us to discuss their time attending various schools. From learning how to read and write to learning basic Alabama history, Benjamin reminisces about his time at the Consolidated Schoolhouse.

[0:44] - James introduces himself.

[1:52] - While in the service, James found out his father had passed.

[6:17] - The Poarch School was a white house with a barn in the back.

[9:03] - James' grandma raised eight girls, four boys, and three grandchildren.

[10:11] - Benjamin describes his time at school.

[11:17] - A day in the life of James attending the Consolidated School.

[14:04] - A train ride cost a quarter.

[17:30] - There was no playground at the school.

[22:10] - James spent some time living in Louisiana.

[26:24] - In the service, James had a couple of close calls.

[28:11] - After the military, James worked at the International Paper Company.

[32:00] - James reminisces about lost love.

[37:50] - Benjamin talks about doing his family research.

Today, we're continuing our conversation about the Consolidated School. Sheila Odem joins us to discuss her time attending the Consolidated School and how it differs from school life today. We listen in as she reminisces about "the good ole days".

[1:03] - Sheila and Mayra Odem introduce themselves.

[5:03] - Sheila reminisces about life in the Poarch Creek community. 

[6:38] - Back in the day, students didn't have a lot of toys.

[9:16] - Students sometimes had to wrap themselves in blankets.

[12:35] - Sheila remembers a time when she was disciplined in school.

[18:44] - Christmas time at the Consolidated School was special.

[24:06] - Kids in The Tribe tried to be helpful after a shotgun accident.

[28:05] - Each day started with a prayer.

[30:23] - There wasn't enough money to keep the Consolidated School.

[32:10] - When Sheila changed schools, they were treated differently.

[35:05] - Sheila remembers when there were threats of riots.

[41:49] - During downtime at her job, Sheila learned to type.

[49:40] - Mayra reminisces about being in the Boys and Girls Club.

[57:39] - Sheila discusses her dad's leg injury.

[1:13:03] - Sheila has never been ashamed of being an Indian.

Today, we're continuing our conversation about the Consolidated School. Ronnie Jackson and Kent McGhee join us to discuss her time attending the Consolidated School and how it differs from school life today. The two men reminisce about their time in school, from their first jobs to what they're doing now.

[0:50] - Kent introduces himself.

[1:50] - Ronnie introduces himself.

[9:00] - Kent reminisces about how much things have changed.

[12:20] - There wasn't room for dances and events at the school.

[14:22] - The school was heated by coal heaters.

[16:50] - There were no problems for Kent and Ronnie when they switched schools.

[20:12] - The Consolidated School shut down because it was no longer feasible.

[23:00] - When Ronnie first started working, he was put in charge of recreations.

[29:32] - After the school closed, it was where the council met.

[33:55] - Ronnie takes us through his career.

[37:30] - Kent details his career.

[42:32] - The community built the current ball field.

[48:36] - A lot of things have changed in the community.

Today, we're continuing our conversation about the Consolidated School. Maxine Lassiter joins us to discuss her time attending the Consolidated School and how it differs from school life today. We listen in as she reminisces about her early years attending school to becoming the school's bus driver.

[1:10] - Maxine Lassiter introduces herself.

[4:40] - Education was important to Maxine's family.

[8:10] - Maxine remembers when she tapped danced at a gathering.

[10:40] - The Consolidated School only had outhouses.

[12:00] - In first or second grade, Maxine had a band.

[15:18] - At the age of 40, Maxine earned her GED.

[18:30] - In 1984, Maxine was the school's bus driver.

[21:50] - Maxine reminisces about the places she lived.

[25:14] - Most of the food Maxine's family ate, her grandpa grew.

[28:40] - People in town always treated Maxine and her family differently.

[35:18] - Maxine reminisces about her religion.

[41:26] - It was important to Maxine for her kids to go to school.

[47:32] - Religion runs deep in the Poarch Community.

[52:00] - Maxine shares some words of wisdom with her grandkids and great-grandkids.