Canku Ota - A Newsletter Celebrating Native America December 25, 1999

"Thunder in the Desert"
by Garnet1654

Where will you be when the sun rises on the new millennium? A 10-day powwow involving more than 100 Native American tribes that starts in Tucson, Arizona on Dec. 31 has grown to such proportions that ABC-TV plans to televise the event as part of its millennium coverage on New Year's Eve. The New Millennium First Peoples' World Fair and Pow Wow, "Thunder in the Desert" will take place in Tucson, Arizona at the Rillito Raceway Park on December 31st, 1999 thru January 9, 2000. Over 100 tribal nations from North America and additional first people from around the world will come together for this event to share with the public their cultural experiences through song, dance, crafts, food and cultural displays. "The New Millennium First Peoples' World Fair and Pow Wow, Thunder in the Desert, was to feature 50 to 60 powwow dancers each day. The number has grown to about 2,500 dancers each day," said Fred Synder , the event coordinator.

It is the intention to showcase the beauty, endurance and spirit of the Native American and other worldwide first people's culture. The New Millennium First Peoples' World Fair and Pow Wow, "Thunder in the Desert" will be the forum to show the world that Native Americans have survived and maintained their unique cultural values. The traditional ways of life have survived, are honored, and will continue to flourish in the 21st century. The event is open to the public and will include concerts, parades, a round table dance to bring in the new millennium, a sunrise blessing for the 21st century, a competition powwow, exhibition performances and craft markets. Theme days, such as Gourd Dance/Warrior Day, Alaska Natives Day, Seventh Generation Youth Day and Senior Golden and Veterans Day are planned throughout the week. Proceeds from the event will go to the event's sponsor, Reservations Creation Women's Circle Charitable Trust, a non-profit Tucson organization whose mission is to preserve, protect and promote Native American culture and traditions. All activities are free, although there will be a recommended donation of $10 to $12 for the Electric Pow Wow concert. "Tucson was chosen for the event because it is close to many tribal nations, has mild winter weather and is one of the top 20 urban areas for Native American populations," Synder said. Arizona is home to 27 tribes, including the Tohono O'odham and Pascua Yaqui tribes in the Tucson area.

Information about the event is available on the World Wide Web at American Indian World's Fair and Pow-Wow http://usaindianinfo.org/

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