In Menominee County/Nation, powwow singing and dancing was voted in the top 3 by 4-H youth. Nicianak 4-H practice nights were held in the month of June every Wednesday for two hours with healthy snacks and infused water. Youth and families on the Menominee Indian Reservation were able to attend and learn different dance styles and singing. Dance teachers used a fun game to teach dancing called “powwow telephone”. Youth followed the leader in a dance and on a certain part of the song the leader did a dance move which was then copied by all those who followed. The object of the game was to copy the dance move from the person in-front of you.

Also, games of powwow trivia were played with prizes to those who could answer correctly. This was a teaching moment where participants learned about powwow protocol and fun facts about powwows. Past and present royalty were special invited guests to role model and teach dancing to younger youth who were dressed in full regalia. Using their experiences in public speaking and dancing, royalty members of the Menominee Nation shared teachings and knowledge they have acquired throughout their journey in dancing at powwows.

Miss Menominee Nation, Lily, shared with youth to never stop dancing. A Q&A session was hosted each night where youth could ask the royalty and the singing teachers questions about dancing, singing, and regalia making. Many questions focused around how they got started and who helped them.

Confidence levels in young people in attendance increased. A survey was distributed to families which collected data on interest and current knowledge levels of participants. Over half of the participants were 18 & under. An overall majority of the participants were Menominee tribal members with some guests from the Ojibwe and Oneida nations. More than half of the families have attended 4-H events in the past and also were at a beginner level of singing and dancing. Most participants attended to learn about dancing and to observe. Family fun and practice was ranked as the top two reasons for attending 4-H powwow nights.

For more updates or to follow the Menominee Nicianak 4-H Facebook page, please go to www.facebook.com/nicianak. You can also learn more about Menominee 4-H youth and powwow dancing by reading this featured article.