Powwows as Identity Markers: Traditional or Pan-Indian?

Abstract

This article examines powwows and Indian identity among the Waccamaw Sioux of North Carolina. Data are drawn from structured interviews. The results of our analyses suggest that the salience of powwows to Indian identity rests not in the authenticity of a powwow regarding local history and culture, but rather in the relationship of the activity to popular community participation. Local powwow participation ranks relatively high in importance to Indian identity and is closely associated with more community-level identity markers. On the other hand, regional powwow activities rank relatively low in importance to Indian identity and are associated with regional political and administrative aspects of Indian identity. The findings suggest that local powwows have become an important part of traditional Indian identity among the Waccamaw Sioux.