KGUN 9NewsCoronavirus

Actions

Drums, dancers livestream as virus moves powwows online

Posted at 1:04 PM, Apr 10, 2020
and last updated 2020-04-10 16:04:45-04

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) — The largest powwows in the country have been canceled and postponed amid the spread of the coronavirus.

Tribal members have found a new outlet online with the Social Distance Powwow. They're sharing videos of colorful displays of culture and tradition that are at their essence meant to uplift people during difficult times.

The posts have become a nearly daily dose of medicine, songs, dances, well wishes, humor and happy birthdays. The site also hosts a live powwow on the weekend where an emcee patches in drum groups, singers and dancers from across the country.