The Mother’s Day Powwow is back in full swing this year with traditional dances, ceremonies and a salmon bake. The annual celebration is a designated Oregon Heritage Event and the oldest documented powwow in the state.

The powwow, which runs May 12-14 and marks its 55th year at the university, is intended to honor and celebrate native educators, mothers and graduating seniors. 

“Our mothers are the culture-bearers, peace-givers and multilinguists,” said Jason Younker, assistant vice president and adviser to the president on sovereignty and government-to-government relations. “Most importantly, they give life. A powwow each year and in their honor is obligatory.”

This will be the first time the powwow is fully in person since the start of the pandemic. During Covid-19, the University of Oregon was one of few institutions to host a virtual Mother’s Day Powwow. 

Megan Van Pelt, co-director of UO’s Native American Student Union and a current UO junior, has been heavily involved in planning and organizing this year’s powwow. 

“The entire UO community is welcome to join us at the powwow and be a part of this beautiful gathering,” Van Pelt said. “As the longest-running student-led powwow in the state, it represents our commitment to honoring mothers and NASU's history."

The event not only connects Native and non-Native members of the UO community but brings together Native communities from across the region.

“It attracts tribes from far and wide, making it a truly remarkable gathering of Native American communities,” Van Pelt said. “I'm particularly excited to invite Native students to join us and take an active role in the powwow. It's a wonderful opportunity to connect with Native students and celebrate our shared heritage in a welcoming and supportive environment.”

According to the organizers, the powwow is one of the biggest events put on by a student group at the UO. Thanks to the efforts of NASU, it is anticipated the MacArthur Court Grand Entry will rival all previous years.

“I am very proud of NASU in everything they accomplish,” Younker said. “There is no better display of powwow culture than the Mother’s Day Powwow.”

The powwow is free and open to the public. Activities start at 7 p.m. Friday night and run through Sunday afternoon. For a complete schedule and more information, visit the event Facebook Page. 

—By Ellie Nicoll, University Communications
—Top photo: Youngsters and adults alike take part in the many events at the annual powwow.