ANN ARBOR—Though the Ann Arbor Dance for Mother Earth Pow Wow has grown into a nationally recognized gathering of Native American and non-native communities, directors of the event are striving to imbue it with a predominately Great Lakes flavor.

“In past years, we?d been inviting a largely national group of vendors, dancers and drums,” said Matt Stehney, a member of the Native American Student Association and three-year veteran of Pow Wow planning.” But we?re within a rich Great Lakes Native culture that we?re anxious to express. The Dance for Mother Earth Pow Wow carries an area-specific dynamic that’s a good fit for our community.”

The focus may be designed to amplify Great Lakes cultures, but the range of the Pow Wow experience is consistently broad. The March 25-26 event, hosted by the University of Michigan, offers artworks in a variety of media, books and recordings, crafts and crafting supplies, contemporary and traditional Native foods, and information on social and political issues currently challenging the community at large.

Dance contests in several categories swirl on the Crisler Arena main floor throughout both days, with rhythmic and vocal accompaniment by competing drum groups. Regular” inter-tribal” dances permit members of the audience to join Native American dancers in a large, slow-moving circle.

Fundamental themes of honor and respect pervade the gathering, expressed through opening and closing prayers, special giveaways, and an overarching commitment to tradition and heritage.

Hubert Williams, Native American program coordinator in the U-M Office of Multi-Ethnic Student Affairs (MESA), said,” The Dance for Mother Earth is a chance for us to recognize the harmony, beauty and renewal we enjoy with each new season. We?re paying homage to our Mother, and to our Creator, with songs and dancing.”

Angela Mu