Erin "Naumi" Chibitty

Erin and fellow students organized and provided input for a Youth-Led Powwow in Moore, OK. The objectives were to engage students in the planning, organization and execution of the event in order to sustain cultural enrichment efforts.

More than 75 dancers from across the state participated in the event, many accompanied by family and friends. The event hosted 13 arts vendors who sold Native American crafts, offering some students their first exposure to these cultural items. Over 15 student volunteers gained hands-on experience by assisting with various aspects of the powwow’s execution. For some students, this was their first time attending a powwow.

The event also provided opportunities for students to earn volunteer hours or points for other organizations. Additionally, some students took on their first leadership roles in a powwow, representing their families, tribes and communities. One attendee reflected: “Thank you for giving [youth] the opportunity to experience being on a head staff and more importantly to learn. You and your staff did an amazing job. The powwow was run smoothly and we got home at a decent hour. We sure enjoyed ourselves!”