Basic rules and etiquette to respect Native American culture

Pat Bennett, with the American Indian Education Program of the Marysville Joint Unified School District, said there are some basic rules and etiquette to follow to respect American Indian Culture:

Listen to the master of ceremonies – he coordinates the powwow. (He will announce when to stand, when men should remove their hats and when it is inappropriate to take pictures). Do not sit on the benches or chairs reserved for the dancers. If you want to take pictures, check with the master of ceremonies and the person you are taking pictures of.

All tape recording must be done with the permission of the master of ceremonies and the lead singer.

If you are not wearing traditional regalia, you may dance only on social songs (the two step, blanket dance, honoring songs, etc.)

Only those with permission of the lead singer may sit at the drum.

Stand during the grand entry, gourd songs, flag songs, invocation, veteran’s songs and the closing song.

During gourd dancing, only the gourd dancers are to enter the dance arena.

Please do not permit your children to enter the dancing circle unless they are dancing.

Do not touch anyone’s dance regalia without their permission.

Do not turn down an invitation by others, especially elders. No smoking, alcohol or drugs.

KNOW & GO