Sponsored
By:
The Preservation of
Native American Culture
The Preservation of Native American Culture, abbreviated P.O.N.A.C.,
is basically just what it says. Best known for hosting the annual
Gagaguwon Traditional Pow Wow in Oscoda, Michigan, PONAC is
dedicated to preserving the customs, culture, and beliefs of
its members and eliminating some of the myths and stereotypes
surrounding Native culture. We are a non-profit and non-political
organization that is working to keep the Native culture in our
area. The name Gagaguwon (meaning ever running water) was given
to us by one of our elders.
The
goals of PONAC are not only to preserve, but to share
and expand our cultural awareness as Native Americans,
through educational seminars, demonstrations, and story
telling. PONAC also offers classes in many of our ancestors
traditional arts.
PONAC
also does many other things that benefit our community, such as our
annual Easter egg hunt, and monthly craft classes. Most of the classes
are free of charge, but there are some that we do have to charge for
the materials. We also help out other groups when possible. We raise
our funds through annual yard sales and fund raising dinners. All
proceeds from any event we hold go to making our pow wow a successful
event that participants, visitors, and members of our community can
enjoy and take pride in.
Our definition of a traditional pow wow is a celebration and gathering
of nations where all are welcome. It's a family reunion, where friends
and family come together to renew relationships and meet new friends.
There is a native dance, with dancers in their traditional dress,
"Regalia", among native food, and crafts.
The Gagaguwon Pow wow is held every year in the last full weekend
of July at Old
Orchard Park in Oscoda, Michigan. For more details, Contact Joe
or Sue at (989) 739-1994, or e-mail us at info@michiganpowwow.com.
You can also contact the chamber at 1-800-235-4625.
