Tradition Meets Tribute: Lawton Welcomes Back the KCA Veterans Powwow

On Saturday, May 17, the Kiowa, Comanche and Apache (KCA) tribes are hosting the 7th annual KCA Veterans Powwow at the Comanche County Fairgrounds in Lawton, Oklahoma in honor of Vietnam Veterans. The Powwow is free and completely open to the public to attend and celebrate our veterans with tradition.

The day will start at 1:00 p.m. with the posting of colors and include a scalp/victory dance, gourd dances, KCA princess honors and other events that last late into the evening.

For those that have never been to a Powwow before, there are a few important things you should know before you attend. Although the tribes in Oklahoma are usually very open to having others join the celebrations to learn more about their culture, it never hurts to know a few helpful hints before attending.

Although powwows can be a celebration, they're sacred traditions with a right and wrong way to do things.

The Veteran Powwow is open to the public and free to attend; just glance at a few helpful hints before attending the traditional dance.

• NO alcohol, drugs or pets. There are times and places for entertainment (not drugs) and pets, these dances are not one of them.
• Avoid sitting on areas with blankets if you're not invited, as seating in the arena is reserved for dancers and family. The KCA does suggest that visitors bring their own chairs.
• If you see a feather fall from a dancer's regalia, or spot a feather on the ground, do not touch it. Let the Head Man Dancer, emcee or Arena Director know about the feather, as there are special traditions they need to follow to put the feather back where it belongs.
• Photos during special performances are generally not allowed. Listen to the emcee and Arena Director to know when videos and photos are permitted.

@cheekbonebeauty If you’re thinking of attending your first Pow Wow this summer, @cree_nomad has the best tips for you!Follow protocol - Follow sitting and standing cues, always be quiet when an Elder is speaking or during prayer, do not enter the centre circle while the dancers are dancing, never touch a dancer’s regalia!Blankets are used to save spots - don’t sit in a spot if it’s covered by a blanket! Enjoy the vendors - you can find amazing jewelry, clothing and food! Make sure to bring cash! Enjoy yourself - Pow Wows are a celebration meant to be spent with your friends and family! #powwow #powwowtips #indigenous #indigenousowned ♬ original sound - cheekbonebeauty

For more information about the event and the KCA, click here.