If you’re from Hopkinsville and Christian County, then you know what the Native American Pow Wow is—and on Saturday and Sunday, it took over the Trail of Tears Park once again, bringing singing, dancing and a celebration of culture with it.
Beyond just the music, drum beats you can feel in your chest and the staple dancing competitions, the Pow Wow is about remembering the history of the Indian Nations and their diverse and spiritual heritage—along with their connection to this land and American history. Organizer Mike Hernandez says the Pow Wow hosted in Hopkinsville has been calling this community home for 38 years, and its one of the biggest cultural events in the region.
He says Saturday brought a tremendous turnout, and the beautiful weather made for another big turnout on Sunday, with thousands of people attending to learn more about Native American culture.
There were 41 different Native American nations represented at the Pow Wow, coming from as far away as Canada, Texas and Nebraska. Hernandez says the Pow Wow also acts as a fundraiser to help support and maintain the Trail of Tears Park, including a recent roof replacement and future upgrades to the bathrooms.
He says they’re always accepting of donations and volunteers, especially as they look to make next year’s Pow Wow bigger than ever. The best way to take part in that effort is to contact the Trail of Tears Heritage Center.
There were three different grand entries over the weekend, showcasing all the dancers in all their glory, but also recognizing the veterans in the crowd. The Nations recognize veterans for their service and sacrifice, as individuals with the Indian Nations served during the World Wars as Code Talkers, serving this country. Enemy forces could never crack the Native American languages that were used by the Code Talkers.
There was a lot to learn over the weekend, as an event that Hopkinsville has been honored and proud to host for years, once again brought song and dance to the city.
