On Friday, May 8th, Maȟpíya Lúta hosted the annual Tȟéča Wačhípi Okȟólakičiīye Wačhípi na Haňpápȟěčhuňpi, saw outstanding accomplishments from students across all grade levels.
The High School Handgame team, guided by ,moderator Roger White Eyes, showcased incredible skill and teamwork, ultimately emerging as champions of their division. High school student Kaylee Martin was 1st in High School Girls’ Fancy and Tonirae Ghost Bear was 2nd in High School Girls’ Jingle.
Cherella Drapeaux, the elementary moderator, reflected on the day, saying, “Seeing the students perform with such confidence and joy was truly moving. They put their hearts into every dance, and it showed.”
In the 6th-8th grade division, the students excelled, with Blake winning 1st place in Boys’ Traditional, Gia taking 1st place in Girls’ Jingle, and Kimimela placing 2nd in Girls’ Fancy Shawl.
The 3rd-5th grade students also had a strong showing. Georgianna claimed 1st place in Girls’ Jingle, while Sakowin secured 3rd place in the same category. Ske Luta Win demonstrated her skills by achieving 2nd place in Girls’ Fancy Shawl.
The youngest competitors in the K-2nd grade division had Kai earning 1st place in Boys’ Fancy, Jo took 2nd place in Boys’ Grass, Pejuta Ota Win triumphed with 1st place in Girls’ Fancy Shawl, and Logan finished 2nd in Boys’ Traditional.
The event’s success was due to the planning and behind-the-scenes efforts of Ashley Two Bulls, Moria Coomes, and other staff members who worked diligently to handle all logistics. Kyleigh Blacksmith-Pourier, Ashley, and Cherella Drapeaux helped select the prizes, emphasizing their importance in recognizing the students’ hard work and encouraging them to keep dancing. The maintenance and custodial staff, along with the middle and high school athletic directors, ensured the space was prepared and ready for the day of the event. Cherella Drapeaux is the moderator for the elementary, Kyleigh Blacksmith-Pourier* middle school, and Ashley Two Bulls high school. Keegan Her Many Horses, who was asked the day of the powwow to be the Arena Director and kindly accepted, ensured the day ran smoothly.
Cherella Drapeaux reflected, “Hosting a powwow like this allows us to take ownership of our heritage. It’s a way for our youth to feel grounded in something much older and much larger than the challenges of today. It gives us a sense of belonging, a feeling of pride, and a reminder that our culture is still strong no matter what.”