The Richmond Powwow Honoring the past , educating the future
Every year for the last 31 years on the last weekend of September the Richmond Powwow Association hosts the Richmond Powwow . A powwow is a Native American celebration of the end of the growing season and the beginning of winter .
But the Richmond Powwow is more than that , it stands as a reminder of the history of the Native Americans , of the trials and tribulations that they were put through . It serves as an educational experience for children , to teach them how the Native Americans lived - and more importantly it teaches people that Native Americans still live to this day , honoring these traditions .
Janet Quigg created the event in 1994 , and in 1997 established the Richmond
Powwow Association . Her aim was to educate people , especially children , about Native American Culture . In addition to hosting the Powwow , the association visits schools throughout the year to lead educational opportunities for students to learn about the history of Native Americans .
“ I think I am most proud that we have been the only remaining Powwow that educates the children and the public about Native American culture , and wanting to keep that culture alive . I think that ’ s what Richmond Powwow ’ s goal has been , we want to educate people about this culture ,” said Quigg .
More than just the history of Native Americans , Quigg wants people to realize the ongoing lives of Native
Americans . She says that they live as nurses , as workers , on reservations and off ; but that they still , even in modern society , live according to their traditions .
“ Native Americans are still here . Some of us don ’ t look Native , we aren ’ t full-bloods by any means , and we ’ re not trying to take anything away from full-bloods ; we are trying to join with them and help keep their culture alive ,” said Quigg . “ I think Black Elk had said it best : we all have to come together as a people if we are going to survive in this world . And I think now people are beginning to see that .” While meant to be a celebration , organizers have expressed that this gathering also stands as a testament to the indigenous peoples ’
resilience despite generations of historical adversity .
They say that this gathering is “ more than just a dazzling spectacle of colors and melodies ,” and also holds “ immense ” cultural significance — serving as a powerful beacon to remind us of the testimonial strength inherent within these proud communities .
The Richmond Powwow features modern Native American musicians and performers every year , such as Arvel Bird or the People ’ s Medicine Drum , who perform a variety of music , dances , and even share stories in traditional Native American fashion .
This year ’ s Powwow will take place from the 26th to the 28th of September .
Welcome home ...
Photo : Gerald Tatum
Community Guide 2025 25