Spirit of Nations Powwow to Celebrate Native Voices

In recognition of the “Celebrate Native Voices” theme of the 2023 Spirit of Nations powwow, Jefferson County Mayor Mark Potts has issued a proclamation declaring Saturday, March 25th, as “Celebrate Native Voices Day” in Jefferson County. The powwow will be held at Jefferson County High School in Dandridge, TN.

Susan Price, Director of Field Experiences for the Education Department at Carson-Newman University, joined the mayor as the proclamation was signed. “Exposing our children to the history and culture of the people who lived, and continue to live, on this land opens their eyes to other people and cultures around them,” she said.

Price serves as a member of the board of directors for Indian Creek Productions, Inc., which sponsors the powwow.

Sherry Finchum, also on hand for the proclamation signing, is secretary and webmaster for Indian Creek Productions, Inc. As a former teacher and elementary curriculum supervisor for Jefferson County Schools, she understands the importance of hearing “Native voices” firsthand. “This powwow will afford everyone the opportunity to do that in person. It will help guests understand the unique challenges and perspectives of Native peoples, Finchum said”

In addition to special demonstrations of traditional arts, such as basketry and beadwork, the powwow will feature American Indian arts and crafts for sale, Indian tacos, activities for children, competition powwow dancing, flute playing, a silent auction, American Indian craft demonstrations, a tipi display and a hoop dance performance.

Funding for the Spirit of Nations Powwow is provided in part by a grant from the Tennessee Arts Commission.

In conjunction with the powwow, the Tennessee Council for the Social Studies is hosting a teacher workshop entitled, “Let’s All Speak”. To register, go online to www.tnsocialstudies.org.

Jefferson County High School is located at 115 W. Dumplin Valley Road, Dandridge, TN, 37725.

Admission is $7 for adults and $2 for children. Veterans and active-duty military personnel are admitted free.

More information is available at www.indiancreekproductions.com or on the Indian Creek Productions Facebook page. Specific questions can be directed to indiancreekproductions@gmail.com.