The Gathering

"The gathering" is an annual event for First Nations natives in North America to meet, socialize, dance, sing and honor their aboriginal culture.  Usually, the biggest gatherings can be found near native settlements or nearby major big cities.  On a chilly, windy and sunny spring day, I decided to attend a smaller pow wow at a campground off a country road. The gathering started off with a ceremonial prayer after a parade of flag bearers to officiate the event.  It was more than the beatings of drums or the vibrant colors brought on by the costumes clad tribes.  There is much to learn about the culture of these proud people and also to realize the struggles they encountered in their settlements.  I tried to record all that I saw with my camera but half way through the event, the battery decided to give up on me.  So let the few images transport you to the pow wow.