THE BEAR AWA K E N S

When spring rousts Montana from its winter lethargy, deciduous trees begin to bud. The wildflowers wake up and show their pretty faces. And something else awakens as well: the bear.

The bear, kyiyo in the Blackfeet language, is the perfect name for the University of Montana Native American Student Association. As a group, the members’ excitement level rises each April as they host Montana’s renowned spring powwow—the Kyiyo Pow Wow at U of M’s Adams Center.

It’s a chance for everyone to experience native cultures that span hundreds of years. Local Missoula Indigenous People such as the Blackfeet and the Salish, but also Kootenai, Assiniboine, Coeur d’Alene, Crow, Flathead, Gros Ventre, Nez Perce and other tribes from all over the West come together—all relishing the chance to preserve the rich heritage of Indigenous history and culture.

A massive drum, fully 10 feet across, beckons as multiple skilled drummers pound out a rhythm that will greet the Grand Entry on April 21 and roll through April 22. This 54th Kyiyo Pow Wow will begin with such a Grand Entry each day, letting all in attendance—and everyone is invited—to see myriad dancers in their full regalia.

The drumhead gets little rest as it remains the beating heart of the bear Kyiyo throughout the two-day powwow. It cues and follows the dancers as they enter and begin to show off dance moves that connect one generation to the next. After the Grand Entry, they, along with drummers and singers, will vie for prizes, but mostly they strive for a chance to pass on their traditions.

The diversity of each tribe represented at the Kyiyo Pow Wow comes to life through the various dancing styles. Their clothing, bursting with colors magnified by intricate beadwork and feather adornments, may date back to ceremonies and dances from this same plot of land 500 years ago.

Here, once this bear wakes up, the stories begin to pour forth. Stories about mountains, rivers, coyotes and ravens and great accomplishments. The stories teach and thrill. And they tug at you in ways you haven’t felt before. Additionally, various vendors offer art and jewelry and clothing that capture some of the authentic flavor of the weekend.

Through powwows such as the Kyiyo, Native Americans pass on knowledge of their histories and express them. Those of us who are privileged to bear witness to the display of cultural enthusiasm and skill feel thankful we have been invited into this world.

The late, revered Blackfeet Chief Earl Old Person once said that Native American songs are a way to link the past of Indigenous culture to the future. “Our language, our songs, our traditions are the foundation of being Natives, and it’s important for everyone to hear them,” he said.