The 57th annual Mother’s Day Powwow — a free event open to the public that honors the Native community, mothers and graduating seniors — runs May 9 and 10.
Held on the University of Oregon’s Eugene campus and organized by the UO Native American Student Union, the powwow includes traditional dances, ceremonies and a salmon bake. It is a designated Oregon Heritage Tradition and the oldest documented powwow in the state.
“NASU’s Mother’s Day Powwow is an annual highlight where all are welcome to experience,” said Jason Younker, associate vice president and tribal relations advisor. “Now running for over 50 years, this is student-run and community supported. I am extremely proud to see the overwhelming support and greet the multiple generations of returning Native Ducks and their families.”
The powwow runs Friday and Saturday, May 9-10, at McArthur Court. Grand entry will begin at 7 p.m. Friday and 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday. There will be a dinner break at 5 p.m. Saturday at the Many Nations Longhouse, 1630 Columbia St.
A salmon bake runs from noon to 2 p.m. Sunday, May 11, in the longhouse.
“Our powwow has a rich history in our community,” said Katie Staton, steward for the Many Nations Longhouse. “Generations of our students, families and alumni have enjoyed coming to Eugene to attend the Mother’s Day Powwow. It is an important event for our tribal communities.”
According to Yudith Chavez-Flores, a NASU co-director, the powwow is about coming together. “For me, powwow is an opportunity to connect with other Indigenous people who, like me, are from a different part of this world,” she said. “Powwow celebrates and honors all those who came before us, who have blessed and paved the way for us to be able to host Indigenous events year after year.”
Lauryn Begay, the university’s 2024-25 Miss Indigenous UO, said the powwow is the time that she feels her community is “most seen” at the university. Christina Thomas, NASU cultural ambassador, called it “a de-colonial celebration that we are all still here.”
“Powwow is important to me because it’s a space where there’s no shame in how you dance or how you look, race, height,” said Te’e Phillips-Brown, Mr. Indigenous UO for 2024-25. “When you’re in the arena there is no shame.”
—Matt Cooper, University Communications