By Roy Cook

Summertime pow wow season in Southern California. Hot, humid days make the cool evening breezes even more welcome in the Dehesa valley of Sycuan. This annual pow wow, September 13, 14, 15, 2013 summer weekend gathering, is the culmination for many other tribal cultural events in the San Diego County region. A major focus is the traditional occasion for the summer Tribal culture, art, music, games and the opportunity to meet new and lifelong friends. Around the dance arena international and local elders are respectfully accessible. This is national tribal self determination in action. It is a celebration promoting trial pride, hospitality and generosity. And is part of the continuing saga that is the local Kumeyaay Tribal custom and tradition.

On Saturday and Sunday mid-afternoon, the Soaring Eagle parents were invited to assist at the serving of the Sycuan tribal hosted meal for the dancers, drum singers and bird singers. Iris Ruvalcava took the reins in hand both days and we were all pleased to see an excellent turn out of volunteers and family. Good food, good purpose and good times together helping the Tribal community.

Much of this Sycuan celebration has a local Kumeyaay prominence. Throughout the weekend from Bird songs sung at the raising of the Veterans’ memorial flags, the drum singing and pow wow activities and into the late night there are custom and tradition presentations of local Bird singing and opportunities for traditional gaming, the Peon competition.

At the grand entry, the Indian flag eagle staff was carried by Danny Tucker, Sycuan Tribal Chairman. They are followed by the Sycuan Color Guard and a massive, glorious group of 400 or more Native American pow wow participants in category regalia.

The Sycuan Tribal Elders have said it best, “Our culture is the driving force and foundation of our existence. It is a way of life that is our obligation to pass on to our children and grandchildren. We are humbled to welcome the many dancers, artisans and vendors that have traveled many miles to be here with us. We are especially happy to extend this welcome to the many visitors that have never experienced our pow wow before. With respect to our people, our land and our traditions, enjoy this weekend as you make new friends and memories.

Finally, we hope that you will carry in your heart a piece of our sacred ways that you may share with your children. Mai’ha mepasho. Ahan kanam. E’Yaay a’han! Pii’wa!”

Mehan, we will be looking to see you at the next Native American gathering.

May the Creator guide and protect you always. Have a safe journey home. Thank you for coming! The Creator’s blessing upon you all until we see each other again!