Powwow showcases Native American song, dance

SOAP LAKE - The sounds of Native American singing and drumming filled Soap Lake's East Beach Park over the weekend.

But Basin residents didn't go to the Soap Lake Powwow just to hear the traditional songs.

They came to see the dancing as well, said Faran Sohappy, of the Soap Lake Powwow Association.

Dozens of dancers, from tots to adults older than 55, showcased their moves during the three-day event, he said. Some participated in open dance sessions, which also were open to non-tribal community members, while others participated in the powwow's judged sessions, Sohappy said.

"This is what's known as a contest powwow," he said Saturday. "The participants can win prize money."

The powwow featured categories for juniors, teens, adults and those 55 and older, he said. Each age category was also split by gender and type of dance.

"There's traditional, fancy and jingle for example," Sohappy said.

Regardless of the category, dancers had one thing in common, he said. They all donned traditional Native American clothing for their performances.

Sohappy said dancers came from Yakima, Colville, and Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, among other places. The Kalispel Tribe was also represented, he said.

The host drum for this year's powwow was Silent Hill, a group from Poulson, Mont. Sohappy said some of the powwow's vendors traveled from far away to attend as well.

"I know one vendor came from Arizona," he said. "So some people have come a long way."

Sohappy said the powwow had a good turnout. It had been many years since Soap Lake hosted a powwow, he said.

"This is the first one here in 33 plus years," said Sohappy. He said the powwow association wants to make it an annual event again.

"A powwow is like a gathering," he said. "It's for people to have fun, see old friends and meet new ones."

Sohappy said the association has learned a lot about organizing the event this year that will help things go more smoothly next year.

"The first year is always going to have obstacles," he said. Obtaining permits for everything, including the powwow's food and craft booths, was a long process, said Sohappy.

"But now we know the process and next year will be a lot easier," he said. For more information about the Powwow Association, visit www.soaplakepowwow.com.