Gathering of Nations


 

When it comes to celebrating the culture and history of New Mexico I love that there is no shortage of ways to do that. There are more museums, and events than I thought possible that celebrate the rich history and culture that defines this state. One of the most important aspects of that is through the Native American culture, and the annual Gathering of the Nations held at Expo New Mexico. After missing out on it in 2022 I knew that this year I had to make it happen, so at the end of April it was circled on my calendar, and I was ready to attend it for the first time.

Other than large crowds I was not sure what to expect from it, and one thing I did not realize was that it is the largest gathering of its kind in North America. After waiting in a decently long line to get in I was very excited and curious to explore and see what this event was all about.

The event space is divided into 3 areas, the food area, the Indian Traders Market, and inside the Tingley Coliseum.  After wandering around the space to get the lay of the land, food was priority. There was no shortage of awesome fry bread options. I finally chose the Navajo Burger with 2 burger patties and all the toppings folded into a fry bread wrap. It was delicious!

Next stop was into the Indian Traders Market. All the artisans, tradespeople, and vendors had booths spread through 2 very large rooms in 2 buildings. The variety and quality of items had me clamoring to see it all and trying to decide what was coming home with me. There were blankets and all varieties of bags in beautiful fabrics. Around every corner was jewelry made from metals, stones, and beads. Everywhere you looked were families selling their creations to other families enjoying the time together. I could have spent hours wandering around and seeing it all, but it was time for the big event I was here to see.

Walking into Tingley during the Gathering of Nations Pow Wow felt every bit of the continent’s largest family reunion. People from all over North America were walking around in the gorgeous and intricate regalia. You hear the bells and metal adornments on their clothes as they walk around. I am here to see the Gathering of the Dancers prior to the start of that day’s competitions. Juniors through adults in teams and individuals compete in dance and music to win prizes and represent their tribes and culture. Once the event got started, tribe after tribe started entering the floor to the sound of drums and chanting. As more and more dancers entered the space, the sound of the drums and the cymbals on their clothes enveloped the entire room. It was a very powerful moment of unity felt by everyone in the room. It only took about 20 minutes for hundreds of dancers, not one out of sync with the music, to all meet on the floor. There was a prayer and words of unity spoken by the emcee of the event and then everyone left the floor to get ready for their individual performances.

One of the things I have loved the most about coming to New Mexico has been learning about the culture and life of the Indigenous peoples of this state that I love so much and knew so little about. As was said in Tingley this weekend for this multi-day annual event, these tribes are together in spirit and aren’t going anywhere. I, for one, am very glad they aren’t.

To see photos of my adventures follow me on Instagram at the_nm_tx
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