What Happens:
* The Grand Entry Procession: The event begins with a procession of dancers, singers, flag bearers, and honored guests entering the Pow-wow arena.
* The Flag Song: Når prosesjonen kommer inn, blir en kraftig og rørende sang kjent som "Flag Song" sunget, og hedrer veteranene og flaggene som representerer forskjellige stammeland.
* Grand Entry Dance: Once everyone is in the arena, the dancers perform a specific dance, typically the "Fancy Shawl Dance" or the "Traditional Fancy Dance" for women and the "Grass Dance" for men.
* The "Head Man" and "Head Lady": The Grand Entry is led by a "Head Man" and "Head Lady" who represent the hosts of the Pow-wow.
* The "Veterans' Honor Song": After the Grand Entry dance, the "Veterans' Honor Song" is played, recognizing and honoring the veterans who are present.
The Meaning and Significance:
* Unity and Respect: Den store inngangen symboliserer sammenkomsten av forskjellige urfolkssamfunn, nasjoner og dansere, og deres respekt for hverandres tradisjoner.
* Honoring Ancestors: It's a time to honor the ancestors and the traditions that have been passed down through generations.
* Celebration of Life: The vibrant colors, powerful music, and graceful dances represent the joy and celebration of Indigenous life.
The Importance of Attending:
* Witnessing a Cultural Legacy: It's an opportunity to witness a vibrant and powerful cultural tradition firsthand.
* Respecting Indigenous Culture: Attending the Grand Entry demonstrates respect for Indigenous culture and heritage.
* Understanding Indigenous History: Seremonien gir innsikt i den rike historien og motstandskraften til urfolk.
Totalt sett er den store inngangen på en pow-wow en virkelig fengslende og meningsfull opplevelse, og gir et glimt inn i hjertet av urfolkskultur og tradisjon.