Soap Lake Pow Wow looks to the future

The recent return of the Soap Lake Pow Wow (formerly called Suds and Sun) celebrated a re-institution of relationship between Pacific Northwest native peoples and the community of Soap Lake. Several hundred natives and locals gathered for three days of drumming, dancing and fellowship.

On Saturday, June 8, the Pow Wow held an Honoring and Gifting Ceremony for Dorothy Downing for her work over the last 20 years in reestablishing this event. "It is so right and fitting to be here, reunited after so many years." Downing said. "This event is symbolic of all that is good. We can look to a shared future." The ceremony was the culmination of 21 years of work.

After the presentation of blankets, more than a hundred people proceeded through a greeting line to thank Downing, giving gifts of hand-beaded medallions, baskets and ceremonial sage. Hearty hugs, hand shakes, an occasionally kiss and much well wishing completed an honoring that left Downing speechless.

The completion of "Calling the Healing Waters" a sculpture representing the significance of the native peoples' historic use of Smokiam (Soap Lake) in 2009 was phase 1. Phase 2, the Soap Lake Pow Wow, took another 5 years. The establishment of the Soap Lake Pow Wow Committee, composed of Faron Sohappy of Electric City, Brenda Ready, Seattle and Jim Roberts, secured the well planned and executed event.

Well done.

Diana McAlister

Arlington, WA