Third Powwow at Bowdoin Celebrates Native Joy

The theme of this powwow—the third at Bowdoin in three years—was Native joy. It honored traditions passed on through many generations and offered attendees and participants the space to connect and come together in ceremony through dancing, singing, and drumming.

Lining the paths of the Quad were over twenty vendors selling crafts, jewelry, tools, and more. Three drum groups were involved, as well as more than fifty dancers.

To host the powwow, the College worked with two Indigenous advisors with ties to Bowdoin: Kailey Bennett ’14 and Sarah Podemski. The two have worked on the powwow at Bowdoin since its first year in 2023, and invite many Native groups and peoples to the event. (Podemski is married to Bowdoin graduate James Gadon ’07.)

“It’s been really wonderful having them connect with Indigenous tribes in Canada, Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and more,” Bowdoin's Director of Institutional Inclusion and Diversity Programs Katy Stern said. 

Bennett is originally from Oklahoma, and is a member of the Cherokee tribe. “One thing that I think is important is visibility,” she said.

“Everyone in Oklahoma knows there are tribal communities, tribal governments, and Native Americans around. Coming to New England, it was kind of a hard transition, because, of course, there are very vibrant native communities and tribes here, but non-Native folks don’t always realize that Native American cultures and communities are present and thriving.” 

Bennett says she wasn’t expecting to get as involved as she has been, but three years in, she says she is proud of all that's been accomplished.  

“That first year, we were really just trying to put on the very best powwow we possibly could, and really center Maine’s native community in that work and in that event,” she said. “I think we achieved that, and it’s just grown since then.”

She mentioned there are folks who drive all the way from Canada, or from the northernmost reaches of the state.

“We’re so appreciative that they come to campus because they’re making quite a journey,” she said. “My favorite part is seeing Maine’s Native community come together. We have been really moved by the response from everyone…I think what’s been really special to see is we have multiple generations of families attending this event.”

There are other volunteers who also come back each year, including Bowdoin students Nate Hagedorn ’27 and Mylia Vigue ’27.

“I think celebrating Native joy is so fitting,” Vigue said. “It’s a good theme and it’s really what the powwow is about.” 

“Growing up in Maine, I learned about ancestral homelands and Native tribes that have been here for thousands of years, but I never actually got to experience an actual cultural tradition,” Hagedorn said. “It’s been really cool to have it come to Bowdoin.” 

The two students spoke about how many of the same people return, and how special it was to see familiar faces again this weekend. “There was a newborn baby here last year, and this year he was dancing!” Vigue said.

The same dancers and drum groups come back as well. Hagedorn joked that the volunteers used to have to direct people everywhere, but now everyone seemed to know where to go. 

The Grand Entry began at noon. This ceremonial opening includes veterans, flag bearers, dignitaries, and dancers. A flag song is performed, followed by prayers and an invitation for all to come and dance together. 

A common favorite, in Vigue and Hagedorn’s opinion, are the intertribal dances, where everyone can join the circle together.

Stern also wanted to thank the many members of the Bowdoin community who help organize the yearly gathering. 

“People in the events office and technology services, facilities, housekeeping, and thoughtful volunteers helped pull it together,” she said. “It’s a really important part of our community.” 

Photos by Adam Bovie.