Yellowstone Times

Montana State University will host the 49th annual American Indian Council Powwow on March 28-29 at the Brick Breeden Fieldhouse. The event is free and open to the public.

The powwow, one of the largest in Montana, will start with a grand entry at 5 p.m. on Friday, March 28. Additional grand entries are scheduled for 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Saturday, March 29.

This year's event will honor Walter Fleming, professor and head of MSU’s Department of Native American Studies, who has been teaching at the university since 1979. His recognition will occur after the grand entry on Friday evening.

“Dr. Fleming has had a storied, illustrious career serving MSU and generations of students,” said MSU’s American Indian Council co-advisers Lisa Perry and Nicholas Ross-Dick in a written statement. “The AIC is excited to present him to family, friends, colleagues and past and present students in the way the dance circle can – full of energy, life and celebration.”

The two-day celebration includes events such as a royalty pageant, sale of limited-edition merchandise, an alumni brunch, and a basketball tournament under the theme "Empowering Each Other."

The Southern Cree from Rocky Boy will serve as the host drum group. Ella Wetsit from Tumwater, Washington is designated as head woman dancer while Ryan Old Crow from Hardin is head man dancer. Miss Indian MSU is Kelsey Mad Plume from Browning.

Masters of ceremonies include Don Racine and Chico Her Many Horses; arena directors are Walter Runs Above and Dean Don’t Mix; head singing judge is Antoine Paul; and head dancing judge is Jordynn Paz. Co-presidents of MSU’s American Indian Council are Titan Brockie and Anthony Hernandez.

Tiny Tots dancers up to five years old can participate during each session and receive small prizes.

Organizers seek volunteers from both MSU and the community to assist with the event. Interested individuals may contact them at aicvolunteeringcommittee@gmail.com.

The MSU Powwow Basketball Tournament takes place in Shroyer Gymnasium starting at noon on March 28 and at 8:30 a.m. on March 29. For more details call 406-994-1311 or email powwowball@gmail.com.

A Presidential American Indian Alumni Brunch will be held at 9 a.m., Saturday, March 29 in the Great Hall of American Indian Hall. More information can be found online or by contacting alumni@montana.edu for details about attendance which requires an RSVP at rsvp@msuaf.org.

Funds raised by MSU's American Indian Council ensure that this powwow remains free for attendees with support also coming from various university departments along with off-campus organizations.

For further information about the powwow visit www.montana.edu/aic or contact via email at aicofmsu@gmail.com.