2021 Virginia Tech Powwow

The AIICC and Native at VT were saddened when it became clear that the spring 2020 powwow would need to be canceled to protect the health and safety of students, tribal community members, and attendees. The all-day event, which has drawn over 300 attendees, was started by the center director during her time as a graduate student. With many lessons learned regarding conducting programs in the virtual age, the center and Native at VT are proud to announce that the show will go on this spring. The community will host this year's powwow virtually with the help of Social Distance Powwow. Center director, Melissa Faircloth, and Devin Ketchum (Program Manager for the Cultural and Community Centers) have been working with Social Distance Powwow to bring an engaging experience to students, tribal members, and attendees on April 3, 2021. Social Distance Powwow is an organization that was started in the wake of COVID19 to assist in continuing the long standing cultural traditions in these unprecedented times. Many Indigenous artisans, musicians, and singers depend on these events for their livelihood. Most of all community members miss being able to gather with friends, family, and loved ones as they share their culture. Many Native individuals describe powwow as both a cultural ceremony and a family reunion. It is time to bring people together and reconnect. The powwow at Virginia Tech provides an opportunity to educate the broader community on Native culture. It has increased visibility and awareness around the existing Native community on campus. Additionally, it provides an opportunity for us to engage with tribal communities from the Commonwealth and beyond. The event has seen participation from the eleven tribes within the state and from tribes as far as New York. This year's powwow will start at 11am and will run through 6pm. There will be an intermission which will allow for Admissions and the Native campus community to speak to prospective students about opportunities at Virginia Tech. You can join the event via Social Distance Powwow , or, by visiting the powwow page through the AIICC website.