Gathering of Nations Pow Wow

I have been to the GON many times when it was held at the UNM Pit. Oh my have things changed. The happiest moments I had observed was standing in line with 2 Indigenous women who are retired veterans. We all got too see veterans, disabled elderly veterans, the elderly and families with small children stand outside in the heat for over 2 hours. People were so excited I seen a few elders faint while standing in line. The amazing staff did a great job of not knowing anything and disregarded Indigenous ways of not letting elders and veterans in first. They did a great job of continuously giving out wrong information and the website was of no help. The excitement of getting into the venue was overwhelming I can see everyone making a mad dash for the food court. How exciting it was to stand in line again to order food and then get in another line to order drinks. The food court area was so well organized the lines were only an hour or so long. It was great to see traditional dancers and drummers compete with the loud night club bass and the food lines that never went away. The merchandise was a great set up. We all were so excited to see the merchandise in the exhibition halls it was jammed packed. The bathrooms were jammed packed. It was quite the event. The absolute cherry on top of the whole thing was the line to get into the coliseum. The line wrapped around the front entrance and back into the food court and down to the exhibition area. I got to see the same disabled veterans and elderly people wait in line again. The seating was great. My knees were right up against a complete stranger and his knees were on a strangers and so on and so on. I seen the excitement of people looking for a seat. A lot of the seating was saved by dancers and the pure disappointment of people's face was nice. BRA-VO to everyone who had a hand in helping put this last event together. May you never be in charge of an event again.

So beautiful

I love watching this on youtube the spokesman is very funny

Hello Paul, My first time was last year to Gathering of Nations. I learned from a friend about it in Oklahoma and went to it. I am glad I did because it helped to figure out who I was and it helped spiritual. I was going through a hard time at the time I went. I went again this year and even though it is sad to see it go, they did a great job. My heart is filled more love for all my friends and indigenous family, whether they know or not they are family in my heart. Bless all those of Gathering of Nations and let God let you know which direction to go. Also thank you to Gathering of Nations for healing my heart, soul, and spirit. Also for the Iheart station love it. ❤️❤️❤️🙏🙏🙏

Just want to say that the Gathering of Nations Powwow was one of the most wonderful experiences I have ever had. It was my first time in New Mexico and it lived up to its reputation as a Land of Enchantment. I feel blessed to have been able to attend, dance, share kind words, share spiritual love for the Earth and our Creator, and simply to be but one descendant of a distant tribal culture (Viking) among over 585 Native American tribes gathered together to celebrate freedom, diversity, respect for the Earth and its creatures, and a genuine love of life. I danced and shouted and listened and learned and smiled and laughed and felt part of a grand global community proudly wearing the colors of an ancient, traditional peace. We danced together so densely and thankfully that our common humanity shined as bright as the Sun. And it was a radiance bright enough to be seen by our Creator. This I am sure of: our Creator smiled upon and will continue to smile upon such sober and drug-free celebrations of Life. -Harry Rand

A wonderful memory, being near a family of dancers, helping each other dress with all the beautiful beaded decorations, magnificent and heart warming. The littlest ones so precious, and mom and dad magnificent!

My husband is Cayuga from Western New York of the Six Nations haudenosaunee Iroquois tribe. This was our first year at the Gathering Nations and our whole family came and enjoyed it immensely. We are So sad that this will be the last year. I hope you are somehow able to continue this wonderful festival. Also we were able to see Gary Farmer sing who is also of the Cayuga Nation. Niawen'kó:wa.

It was the Gathering Of Nations 2000, and I had started to attend in 1997 as a student at Kent State University and I was on part of my Honey Moon, and my wife and I were interviewed by ( Roy Traxx), and we also had the privilege of taking a picture with ( Elaine Miles) she was Head Women’s Dancer that year, and my wife and I were on the Pow WoW video that year, I have had many outstanding oppertunities, last year I met Moses Brings Plenty and he was so nice to me and let me take pictures, he is an amazing thesbiean with lots of movies and télévision shows under his creadit, like Dances With Wolves, Yellow Stone, Hell On Wheels, and now Marshall’s!

Since 2008, I did my duty as Stage Manager at the Stage 49. Thank you to all the artists and bands I got to work with. It was truly a unique experience! Good future to all you performers!

I remember going to the GoN since I was a little boy! My dad would take us every year! Long as I can remember I'm 32 now! I'm sad I won't be able to share my experience with my kids going forward. But my best memory was the late grand entry!!

Wonderful experience! I am so grateful we made it to THE LAST DANCE!

Was an amazing opportunity to enjoy 2025 Gatherings as Royalty. Truly an incredible event with the best people. Going to miss the largest pow wow so close to home. 🪶👑

Fun, beautiful people. Will miss the market deals.

Aho' 🪶🪶

Wow! Thank you for a great time. Came all the way from Minto, Alaska!!

My senior year of high school, I participated in my first Indigenous pageant experience through Miss Indian World. That moment became a foundation for my leadership journey. I looked up to the women who carried themselves with strength, care, and purpose, and I began to understand what leadership could look like for me. During that experience, I was honored with Miss Congeniality—a title I wear proudly to this day. It reflects how I choose to move through the world: with kindness, respect, laughter and love for community. What made that experience even more powerful was witnessing representation in action. Seeing Danielle Ta’Sheena Finn being hooded with her Juris Doctor and stepping into her role as an associate judge for the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe showed me what was possible. In that moment, something clicked—I knew that one day, I could become Dr. Yazza. That vision stayed with me. I carried it forward when I applied again in 2020, ready to step into the Miss Indian World stage once more. Although COVID took that opportunity and I aged out of eligibility, it never took away my purpose. The teachings, the sisterhood, and the responsibility to lead with intention remained. I continue to hold onto the words shared by those who came before me—that we are all Miss Indian Worlds in the way we carry ourselves and how we treat one another. That we lead with respect, uplift our sisters, and honor our communities. Today, I am a doctoral candidate in the Native Americans in Education Leadership program at the University of New Mexico. And I know without a doubt that Miss Indian World helped shape that vision for me as a young girl. Representation matters. It plants seeds. And I am living proof that those seeds grow.

Good morning! I’m sad to hear that this will be the last dance. The first time I had ever gone it was such in experience that it became emotional. I was sad not being able to share it with someone. This time I have invited family to share the last dance with me. Thank you and blessed be🖤

My earliest memories were going to the GON pow wow when it was at the "Pit" in the early 90's. I was about 8-9 years old, they allowed us to run into the center and grab fruit. I remember walking through the outside tents breathing in the sweet grass, dirt and sage. Feeling the loud drums pulsate through my entire little body, holding my dad's strong hand and feeling like this is exactly where I'm supposed to be, wishing one day I could dance as a jingle dress dancer. Now I bring my family to feel and experience this as I did and hope they keep it close to their hearts and in their memory. -Thur paf (Ysleta del Sur Pueblo)

Hi Gathering of Nations Committee, we met as teens in Oklahoma at a benefit dance when he was visiting from his Rez in North Dakota. We decided to meet up at GON 25 after not seeing each other for decades. We’ve been inseparable since then & this year, we’re returning as newlyweds on our honeymoon. Neaese-Hahou-thank you for the memories, especially the final two years. Love, Ellen & David Morsette

I remember that first time we came in the 80s, we had nothing. We slept in the back of the pickup. Some audience did a giveaway when we danced. I still have tears when I think about it.

Well, here we are at the crazy week again before GON, I wanted to reach out and Thank You for all you have done over the years to help Indian Co., I see it and many others do too. The All Nations Skate jam started 20 years ago, I know you guys remember a younger version of me with a crazy idea to start it, well let me tell you what all we accomplished in that time, we caught the eye of Vans shoes who loved what we wanted to accomplish and Steve VanDoren himself has been to the event almost every year and also to GON and he loves it. We caught the eye of the Smithsonian Museum, and not only did they do a exhibit in Washington DC they sent out a film crew who produced the film Skateboard Nation; it is still in rotation on the Smithsonian channel. We helped build the confidence of a young native skater from Albuquerque named Mariah Duran after she won her division many years at ANSJ to continue her sport and she is now one of the USA Olympic Team riders that will once again compete in Los Angeles in 2028. We have caught the eye of Tony Hawk and Jeff Ament(Pearl Jam) to inspire their non-profits to help build skateparks in Indian Co. We have over the years done tons of demos and helped tribes matched with the correct people to help build parks in and around Indian Co. All of these accomplishments would not of happened without GON, there's no way I could have kept any of this going without the opportunities GON has given us, funding for Non-Profits has all but dried up and our only way to keep ourselves self-funded was to sell the shoes and I personally thank you for that. I know the ups and downs of running events, I have at many times said I was ready to step away, but at different times I have gotten letters from kids Thanking me for the event and that they want to come back the next year and win and it reminds me what I started it for, and that was to make a difference! I Thank You for all you have done and to let you know you have helped make a difference in many people's lives in Indian Co. And we appreciate it! I hope you guys reconsider your decision one day and possibly train some of your key people you have worked with over the years and mentor them to keep this great tradition in Indian Co. Alive, you have helped not only what I do but tons of small Indian pow wow families and businesses over the years. I thank You personally for helping make my dream stay alive! Todd L Harder

Memory that touch my heart Was buying cd from circuit city and attending gathering of nations back in April 2004 with my dad and stepmom

My late mother, Dr. Merlee Arviso . She always looked forward to Gathering of Nations Powwow. The times we would sit in the audience during Gathering, she would say to listen to the drums, take in the good with every song. Her unending love and support pushed me to continue dancing in powwow. Forever in our hearts and dancing in the sky.

My heart breaks knowing this is the last Pow Wow. Since my children were little, I have created beautiful memories with my family. The most precious memory is from our first Pow Wow, when my little daughter danced in a circle with everyone in the PIT. My pride and joy felt like it would burst from my chest. Years later, that same little girl, now a mother, brought her children to the Pow Wow. My granddaughter was so small that we had her in a stroller. When the Sacred Eagle Blessing was announced, we were in awe as we witnessed such a moment inside the PIT. The most magnificent bird I’ve ever seen soared high and circled above us. We lowered our heads, feeling privileged to receive this blessing, tears of joy in our eyes. As I looked down, I saw the smiling faces of my beautiful granddaughter and sweet little grandson, blessed just as if we had been in church, touched by holy water. I will carry this unforgettable experience in my heart. Please don’t let this be the end! Let us call upon the City of Albuquerque and the State of New Mexico to join us in preserving this cherished tradition!

It started out when Los Alamos Middle School needed a staff member for the Native Hawks Club. There was no Native staff member, so they allowed me to do it. When it came time for Pow Wow, some of the Native students had never been to one. The year when my mom was dying of cancer and we were at the end of her life and not conscious. I whispered that if she decided to leave, she could meet me at the Pow Wow. I made the school personnel swear to tell no one my mom passed until after we left on the bus.

I was very sad when I had been told that this was the last dance it had shown me different cultures from around the world. I had wished that I could have danced at least at the powwow but I couldn't. I've been going for years and It's sad that it's the last dance, but at least I could go to it for one last time.

My favorite gathering was in 2000 at the NM State Fair with my wife, who had just visited NM for the first time from Washington state. We got to dance with the Indigenous brothers and sisters in the Indian Village. Not the same as GON , but still the spirit of the first American peoples (from South, Central, and North America). Loved It! I wish we could bring ALL of our relatives (from Choctaw, Chickasaw, Africa (Gambia), Japan, and Scotland.) to the last dance.

The best times were at the Pit..I could sit by the ramp and talk to the dancers. My brother and I went for lunch. Always a Navajo taco. We sat down and two young men asked to sit with us they were Lakota. They were eating burgers and fries. This cracked us up.

Love it!

About 9 years ago, I discovered my biological family and found that my biological mother was a member of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe. Although she had already passed, I was able to find 1 Aunty and about 100 cousins! 4 years ago, I got to meet several of them at the Gathering. So it was my first experience engaging in what was my heritage! it was amazing! I learned so much, and now I'm honored to attend the final Gathering this year! My photos are of my Auntie making my Ribbon Skirt (beautiful!), my family that I met in person for first time and a Pic my husband took at the gathering (Artsy!)

I am a Sociology Professor who was born and raised in little New Mexico. I am so grateful that I have had the opportunity to witness and learn from the traditions that have been so graciously shared at Gathering of Nations. Growing up in this state, the presence and strength of Indigenous cultures have always been a living part of our communities, but events like this made it possible for so many people, locals, and visitors alike, to see, hear, and feel the beauty of the traditions in a powerful way. I see the younger generation embracing their culture and it warms my heart. They are an inspiration and we should all follow in the same footsteps. The drumming, dancing, regalia, and the spirit of the Grand Entry are experiences that stay with me and others long after the event ends. I feel blessed that so many people, including myself, have been welcomed to witness and appreciate these traditions. I believe this event has helped foster understanding, respect, and admiration for Native cultures, and its impact will continue through the memories and lessons it has shared with us all. I literally have tears running down my cheeks writing this and knowing this is the last year I will be able to have this beautiful experience.

This will be my 1st GON im excited 😊

💬🧠👁️👁️💋✌🏾 Ya'at'ééh Hello 👋🏾 Or Aloha 🌺🐝🍯🍵🍋 my name is Virginia Lopez & I was born & raised in Albuquerque, NM & I'm 52 years old with 1 daughter & 1 grandson & my story is I started going to the Gathering of the Nations about 21 years ago which is 11 years - 6 after they moved to Tingley Coliseum & then my daughter & myself went back in 2023, 2024 & 2025 & now 2026 & it was an honor to have gone for this many years & notice not only the beauty but the intelligence of many Pow Wow dancers of where they came from & the lives they build & lives as the Indigenous Warriors they are & always will be & thank you for all of your memories that I will carry on within my self being part Diné Navajo & proudly & it was an honor for myself & my daughter Miranda Chavez to have finally meet Ruben Little Head after I've been wanting to meet him for 14 years from when I started going to the Gathering of Nations 20 years ago - the 6 years I ended up not going & we're blessed & I hope the Gathering of Nations come back in 2027 to Pow Wow Dance back at the Pit because the Indigenous shall not end "The Last Dance" the way the Boarding schools tried to end the Indigenous Languages & Culture & Pride & Showing the Bald Eagle was a way of showing the resilience of what you Concord & Established who you are now & always will be A'ho & God Bless All Nations Amen 🙏🏾📖🕯️

Hello my name is Steve Tallas in 1991 I did artwork for a poster / Graphic design Lettering Gathering of Nations pow-wow, The same year I painted a pow-wow Dancer was painted and sold at the Gathering 1991 printed by ZIA Graphics , tallassteven0@icloud.com

Hello my name is Steve Tallas I was selected for a poster artist back in 1991 Donated artwork, was wondering if it in any Upload images ,

Never ben to that pow wow I'm just a local dancer in cardston alberta I dance black foot old style

GON was the first ever powwow I attended. I remember clearly during the first drum call that I closed my eyes to take it all in and when "Cree Confederation" started singing, tears came down my face and I thought: this is the place for me. That night, there was a special dance with Talon White Eye and his family, and it is still one of the most spectacular things I have experienced live: the energy, the power of the drum, regalias in all their colorful glory. Last year I had the honor and the pleasure of accompanying the Lipan Apache Chief and his family from Mexico for their first time at GON, and it was a real pleasure seeing him participate in the Grand Entry. I expect to be there next year.

It's going to be awesome

Well, my ex-sister in law and I decided to take a little vacation and go to the Gathering of Nations Powwow. So we put aside our funds in preparation for our trip. Well, my mom's childhood friend got wind of our planned vacation; next thing I know, her daughter came into the store where I worked and proceeded to inform me that her mother wanted to know if she could come with us on our trip. I was dumbfounded but I asked my ex-sister in law how we should respond. We mulled it over. We, of course, being respectful of elders dared not refuse. We said "Okay, she may come". A week or so later, her daughter comes back and informs us that her mother would not go unless my mother came. We were a little surprised so we asked my mom if she wanted to come on our trip and she said, "yes". So the family all provided funds for my mom's trip. We all made our travel arrangements. So my ex-sister in law and I made sure that our travel would be smooth, so we bought our luggage making sure that each piece had wheels, we wanted to make it easy on ourselves, after all it was a vacation. One day before we were to fly out, my ex-husband calls me up and asks me what time we were flying out, which plane and so on. So I ask, "why are you asking me all these questions?" and he says, " Oh because Bernice (his sister) is making my travel plans to the powwow and I want to go on the same plane with you guys. So the next day, we all went to Fort St. John to catch the plane. Well we get to the airport in Albuqeurque, and find out our elder had packed the largest old suitcase, (one with no wheels) and had filled it up and made it so heavy she couldn't carry it. Of course we had to take turns to carry her suitcase around. She had filled it up with many items including about 13 skirts that she didn't even wear. People were nice there, my mom went to buy corn on the cob, and the man asked her "How many ears?" She responded, "87 Years" and of course he couldn't help himself, he gave her 2 free ears. We had a wonderful time, we watched the powwow, we shopped for antiques ( a pipe and a flute eg.) . We also went sightseeing. But the greatest memories come as result of the two elders who accompanied us on our vacation. They both have moved on to the spirit world, we will never forget the blessing we received from sharing our holiday with these two elders, my mom and her friend, "thank you our loved ones".

Gathering of Nations ( at The Pit ) was the " big show" we looked forward to every year for more than 30 years !! Our first year going was 1989 as spectators. In 1990 we had our first booth in the Indian Traders Market . In 1991 my mom , Delores , and I started making the dance shawl presented to Miss Indian World . There are nearly 30 Miss Indian World title holders that have one of our shawls ! It was an honor and a pleasure making each one . Happy times and great memories when I look back on those days . - Marie J. Martin

Hello People, Throughout the 12 years of attendance to the Gathering of Nations, they were so many moments that gave me joy; but in 2019 during the farewell of the Miss Indian world, when the Apache Crown Dancers danced for her wellbeing, I felt my tears rolling down my face, and my heart jumped with a sense of pride and belonging. That moment lives in my mind. It is sad to know that this wonderful gathering will be no more; but with hope that another group can continue or start a new gathering. ba'ahens, Luz Moonlight Celaya Chiricahua Apache

I am not of Native American heritage, but my wife is Navajo. We began attending the Gathering of Nations when we were married over 15 years ago and have been there five or six times. This year, we brought some friends to share in the Gathering. I have been overwhelmed by not so much by the spectacle and pageantry, but by the people and learning about the culture and way of life. However, while it seems completely unrelated, I am an avid Red Sox fan and several years ago, I ran into a lady who I believed told me she was a granddaughter of Chester Nez, a Navajo Code Talker. I wish I could remember her name, but what attracted me to her was the tee shirt she was wearing. It was an image of Chester Nez throwing out a first pitch at a Red Sox game in 2004 and had verbiage about his helping to break the curse of the Bambino and the first Red Sox World Series championship in 86 years. She told me the story of his throwing out the first pitch early in the season and giving Navajo blessing on the field. The season passed and the Red Sox found their way to the post season and were trailing the Yankees 3 games to zero in the ALCS. Chester did another blessing for the team and they did what no other team had ever done and came back to win that series, then go on to win the World Series. I really wanted one of those tee shirts but I lost track of the young lady. Coincidentally, my wife's grandfather, William McCabe, was one of the original 29 code talkers and served with Chester Nez. So with my beloved wife Janice, and my beloved Red Sox, my life has now been linked twice inextricably with the Navajo Nation. I'm thankful for having had the change to attend the Gathering many times (and we will be there for the last dance), and I'm very sad to see its end coming. While it's a way to carry on the Native American culture, it's also a way for people like me to learn so much about their way of life and heritage.

We had an amazing time at GON 2024. My husband is Meztisa and he said he loved being around so many others that looked like himself. We had the absolute fortune to be in VIP seats directly above the Northern Cree Drum Circle, and they had pride of place. Just breathtakingly beautiful. We cried every time they sang.

Can’t remember the year I met my mom for the pow wow she came from Wa state I came from Ok. We got posters and cards from the code talkers. My mom made her journey 5/4/2023 I cleaned her house and took that poster down. Now the elders from our tribe are trying to get together and come to this last one my mom would have enjoyed this. We went again 2012 a van full elders made the trip. We are older now we will have to fly. I hope we can get it worked out. Laurinda Thomas Squaxin Island Tribe Shelton Wa

I loved going to Gathering of Nations in 2025 with my dad, I came from the southern interior of British Columbia, Canada and represented my nation just by being there. I got to share information about the Ktunaxa/Ksanka/kutaneai/Kootenay people in both Canada and the USA

Accepting the invitation to vie for the title of "MISS INDIAN WORLD" at a young age...back when talent was both contemporary and traditional. I brought home the title the first MISS INDIAN WORLD to my family, tiospaye and the Lakota Oyate. Codi M. High Elk, Cheyenne River Lakota from Thunder Butte SD A'TunWanPiWin/WinyanWasteWin I come from the Fights The Thunder Tiospaye of the Two Kettle Band, South Dakota. Pilamaya to the GON Coordinators and Staff.

The Gathering of Nations is my family, my friend, my job, my stress and a living being. Since I was a child, the Gathering of nations has been a part of my life. I’ve grown up around it, in it and making it happen. As my family, Gathering of Nations was started by my father, and so many of my relatives work with GON. As my friend, GON has always brought a lot of people together who over time have become friends and adopted family. GON is what I do. Every day I have worked to make the powwow happen. As my stress, as with any large-scale event, there is bound to be STRESS! But it’s good motivation to keep working hard, thus Gathering of Nations is its own living being that has taken on a life of its own, and my family and I have been for 43 years the facilitators and keeper of this energy. ” Thank you to all who believed in the dream and enjoyed it. The Gathering is the one time of the year where I am so proud to be a part of something so special and enduring. in 40+ years, I have seen dancers and drum groups come and go but always feel the excitement and energy it creates; from the first drum beat until the last.....there is no place like it. More than a sight to behold, it’s an amazing feeling, sometimes beyond words.

 The nervousness sets in as soon as I step onto the arena floor. I see some of the best dancers I will ever see and they are just as excited as me. I always like to scan the crowd because it gets my blood pumping. It feels like all the spectators are right on top of me. As the song starts, I do my first moves and my body fills with adrenaline. At that point, nothing else matters. It’s just me and the drum. The atmosphere, the top-notch drums, the level of competition brings the best out of you. You enter what some call “the zone” and you stay there until that last beat of the song when you stick it with your best move. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to dance in a lot of places and I will say no place compares to the atmosphere generated by “The Pit.” It’s as close to a stadium setting as we see on the powwow trail. When the place fills with powwow people watching their favorite dancer, it creates a fierce competition that crowns a world champ each year. For me as a dancer, there is a competitive side that goes along with the spiritual side of dancing. A true champion will have that understanding. Once you attain that balance it empowers you. I hope to someday be a true champion. Some of my best memories as a dancer came from the Gathering of Nations. And they weren’t the times I was called for first place, but instead times when I felt that empowerment. The grass dance specials for Ronnie Preston, Richard Street and Buck Spotted Tail are all times I will never forget. Thank you to the Mathews family for your lifelong devotion to creating an environment for everyone to enjoy. That’s what powwows are all about. They are a celebration of life and each April we all feel alive and strong. aho! 

The experience of being Head Young Man Dancer has helped me in my education, successful employment and overall self-initiative to be a better person. Gathering of Nations was the greatest experience we had as family, and I will be forever grateful! 

The Gathering of Nations is my life simply stated; I live it, breath it, and love it. I have always said there is a magic about the Gathering. I truly believe that to be true. Derek brought it to life back in 1983. I walked into his office looking for a work study job at the University of Albuquerque. At that point, the Gathering was just a college powwow but Derek’s earliest conception of what we see today was already taking its first step. I listened to Derek’s ideas and became a believer of his dream. Since that time, my role has evolved. From the beginning, I have nurtured, given my strength, my time and devotion to The Gathering. It has grown to become a huge responsibility beyond anything I could have ever imagined. The Gathering is my heart and soul. 

As a pueblo woman, I can say that the most meaningful, memorable, happiest, and most important moment for me was April 2000 when all the pueblos came together after 500 years to sing and dance together in a beautiful show of unity as a nation. My Nation! thank you Gathering of Nations for the incredible ceremony you put together.

Being a part of Gathering of Nations and Miss Indian World committee / Team has been an amazing journey! I have met so many people along the way who have become family, so I look forward to seeing them every April. Through the years, I have been inspired by the young women who represent their people, ancestors and families in a positive way. I am also thankful for the relatives from all four directions who come to our homeland and bless us with song and dance. thank you, Derek, Lita and Mel, for all you have done. congratulations on 43 years!

 Every year, I look forward to the Gathering. Thank you Derek, Dr. Lita and Melonie for all the work you do. Every year, I spend the day at GON where there’s always something to do. Eating, looking for beads, watching the dances, etc. My head and heart swells up with pride when people find out I did the beadwork for Miss Indian World. I like the prestige of being involved as a true Native American Indian artist. Every year, I meet new interesting people that stay with me, such as this young Jingle dress dancer from Canada. Over the years, I’ve seen her grow into a beautiful young lady and now has a growing family of her own. i always look for her.

The 2010 Gathering of Nations Powwow was a challenge like non other to produce. The powwow was moved outside due the construction and renovation of “The Pit.” This was the first and only time the Gathering was held outside. the challenges included the high winds, the threat of rain, snow and hail. It was freezing cold!. But through it all the powwow went on, uninterrupted by the weather. the stands were full, and nearly 2,500 dancers and dozens of drum groups all came together and made the 2010 Gathering of Nations Powwow great. The powwow singing was so good, Gathering of Nations received the 2010 Grammy for the Best Native American Music Album that year. Thank you drum groups!

As always, I offer peace and positive blessings. As a professional musician, I have performed in many arenas in my lifetime, and I have yet to find the level of spirit in any other audience like I have found at the Gathering of nations powwow. hands down, my best moments there were in 2011 on Stage 49, a very cold and windy night, but the fans came out to show support regardless of the weather. It was much appreciated! To my surprise and the fans that night, Dr. Lita Mathews decided to make an unexpected appearance during my show. I was glad when she accepted my offer to how much of an impact she had on everyone present. When she got on the mic, it reconfirmed in that very instant the true power of a messenger of light. I was inspired to continue with the work i do no matter what the challenges. as a singer, my job is a simple one, to inspire all through my music. Not every day do I get the privilege of utilizing a meaningful and organic moment on stage like i did that night. Lita, thank you for the light you bring into the world and thank you for inspiring me, may the almighty Creator continue to shower you and family with blessings. 

For me, the most memorable moment for me at the Gathering of Nations happened on April 23, 1994; when my best friend became my wife, it was in front of our friends and family at “The Pit.” She said, “I do!” I remember thinking ‘til death do us part is a long time but now life together seems to be going by so fast.” 

The high media visibility and greatness of the Gathering of nations powwow has attracted many celebrities over the last 40+ years. In 1990, Grammy winning jazz trumpeter Wynton Marselles visited the powwow. On Saturday evening, he stood at the announcer’s stand and performed a piece of an original composition which was inspired by the drum songs and the movement of the dancers. There have been so many others such as Grammy winning gospel singer, Albertina walker, the Mardi Gras Indians of New Orleans, The Cosby Kids from the Cosby Show, Lindsey Wagner, Ky Mani Marley, Kevens, Wes Studi, Gary Farmer, Kevin Kostner, Robert Mirabal, Vice President Al Gore and many others. One super highlight of the 2010 Gathering of Nations Powwow was the surprise video address by the President of the United States, Barack Obama. Right after the first grand entry on Friday afternoon, a White House delegation presented the very special message to all attending the Gathering of Nations Powwow, by President Obama. His message was informative and enjoyed by everyone. Thank you Jodi Gillette for bringing this special moment to the Gathering of Nations, and thank you for all that you have done for Native America. 

 In the early ninety’s,  The Gathering of Nations hosted a Toys for Tots Powwow. The powwow was held in a smaller venue on the UNM Campus. The goal of the event was to fill a tee pee with toys for Native kids. The powwow was very successful. All the dancers and the singers had a good time. the highlight of the evening was the arrival of Santa! The tradition was continued on in conjunction with the Gathering of Nations powwow. Each year, tiny tots receive toys, books, stuffed animals and much more for their participation. It solidifies our future in the powwow arena. 

The second time I went to Gathering has to be the most memorable moment for me. it was 2003 and I was the first woman to be asked to serve as head northern drum judge. A small number of people were somewhat sore about it but that was ok. Most people were incredibly supportive and very inspiring, “Aiy hiy!” The following year, I went back to share my culture which is round dance singing. We sponsored the first round dance singing contest held at the Gatherings of Nations. we sang in front of the audience that year and it was so quiet you could hear a pin drop. I sang the song that came to me in a dream about my deceased mother. It was very emotional but having Brian and Irvin (Waskewitch) beside me really gave me strength. Afterwards, I remember Derek Mathews said to me, “We’ve never had a round dance or hand drum competition here at the Gathering of Nations, so we will continue to have this contest.” That meant a lot to me because round dance singing originated in my area of Little Pine, Poundmaker, Thunderchild and Onion Lake communities in Saskatchewan. since then, Gatherings of Nations has brought round dance singing to another level. I want to say thank you to GON for accepting round dance singing and incorporating it into their program. “Aiy hiy!”

Winning the 2010 Grammy for “Best Native American Music Album,” was a big surprise. It was a great moment of recognition to the drum groups who sang at the 2010 GON. It is a fact that without the sound of the drums, there is no powwow. The award recognized the quality of champion singing groups combined with postproduction work by Capitol Mastering/Records. It was a lifelong achievement for us and our powwow family for the many years of the production of the Gathering of Nations, “North America’s Biggest Powwow.” 

 My experience as Miss Indian World 2007-2008 will forever resound in my memory. When I look back upon this time in my life, my heart is filled with immense love for all of those people and communities with which my path has crossed, and gratitude for all of the opportunities that I was blessed to receive. Without the Gathering of Nations and the Miss Indian World program, I would not be the empowered and passionate woman that I am today. from the bottom of my heart I say, “Mvto!

The Gathering of nations and Miss Indian World pageant have given me the opportunity to meet so many beautiful young ladies which has been an inspiration that teaches me that our traditional ways are still alive and flourishing. Being a part of Gathering of Nations and Miss Indian world has truly been one of the most exciting highlights of my life. CO-FOUNDER Melonie Mathews The Miss Indian World (MIW) program has become the largest and most prestigious cultural pageant for young Native women in North America. The MIW pageant has brought together contestants from tribes in the United States, Canada, Guatemala, northwest territories, Yukon and Puerto Rico. Each contestant shared her tribal culture with not just the other contestants, but with everyone who attended the MIW pageant portions of the event. The MIW pageant gave everyone the chance to witness so many tribes at one time and really learn something specific about each tribe and the humanity of Native people. ”  Thank you, Derek, Lita and Melonie.

In 2000, at the height of the presidential campaign, Vice President Al Gore made history by appearing at the Gathering of Nations. He was met at the airport with singers and dancers and the photo was carried around the world. entering the arena surrounded by dancers and elders from hundreds of nations, he stood with us as we showed our respect as we sang an honor song for him. the nations stood as one, and once again, the travelers of the red road voiced a message of peace for all our relations to the leaders of the free world. 

Words will never express the feeling of standing on the floor of “The Pit” as your name is called as the new Miss Indian world. to this day, when I It watch my crowning video, I still get emotional. wasn’t until I became a member of the Miss Indian World committee that I realized how much work goes into the Gathering of Nations and the Miss Indian World program, so young women can have the opportunity to experience that moment and a reign as Miss Indian World. I will be forever grateful for the opportunities and experiences I was given as Miss Indian World and most importantly, I am thankful for the gift of my Gathering of nations family and my Miss Indian world sisters. congratulations Derek, Lita, Melonie, the GON staff and patrons for all the years of a truly powerful, spiritual, and magnificent event.

Gathering of Nations has been “thee” powwow for the past few decades. It’s amazing how time flies. I have been attending GON since 1989 when my family and I went “to scope it out.” The Indian traders Market combined with huge crowds of dancers and spectators is like no other across Indian Country. We returned in 1990, set up our first booth in the market and have been there ever since. In 1991, my mom (Delores) and I made the first of the Miss Indian World shawls. Janet Saupitty won that year. My mom passed away in 2000 and I have kept on making the Miss Indian world shawls for several years after. it was truly an honor to make the shawl each year. Each April, I Looked forward to heading to Gon, selling our crafts, buying supplies for the following year, watching the top dancers compete and seeing friends and family. thank you, Melonie, Derek and Lita, for all your years of friendship and for starting Gathering of nations many years ago!

The Gathering of Nations has been physical, emotional, spiritual, and intellectual for me and my two sons. Though Native people have changed under the rule of modern times, we have continued to exist, to the point of rebirth. There are new concepts being developed to maintain the cultural aspects of life, with the Gathering of Nations Powwow being part of the renaissance of song and dance in Indian Country, the spirit of the people. 

It has been an honor and a great deal of fun to be involved with the Gathering of Nations. Gon has afforded me and my family the chance to have such an exciting Native American event to look forward to year after year. We enjoy ourselves there and we always seem to find somebody that we have not seen for years, that’s just how “The Gathering” is. It attracts people from all over. All the best drums and dancers always show up, so as an Arena Director, it allows me a chance to get an up-close look and be in the thick of all the action. It’s a lot of work to be on the head staff of Gon and after it’s over, you feel it from head to toe, but good memories seem to always come with that. I appreciate the good relationships that I have been able to develop through GON and with other head staff people (too many to name) over the years and of course the Mathews family. 

It has truly been an honor and a privilege to be one of the powwow announcers for the Gathering of Nations.  From the very first time I attended the Gathering of Nations, it puts me in “awe” as I was blown away by the greatness of all the tribal nations represented. You hear the drums and see all the dancers, the true spirit of the powwow comes alive, and you can feel the energy of all the drums and dancers. It overcomes all of the people that are there to witness one of the greatest celebrations on the face of this earth. We honor our ancestors with the great gift they left us of song and dance. Thank you!

We were here first, we’re not going anywhere. !!!!

You helped out tons of mom and pop Indian families that make 25-50% of their yearly income at your event. I want you to know theres no way All Nations Skate Jam would still be running and for all the tribes that have built skateparks for the kids to skate because they attended All Nations, I thank you for making a event that has helped keep our movement going to help keep our youth healthy! Many blessings for all you and your family have done for All Nations!!!❤️❤️

I built a friendship and family with the Mathews family Melonie Mathews Derek Mathewsand the MIW board including Zell, Beulah, and the Sunrise family. I received a GON dance scholarship, which paid for my Masters degree at UNM. My family had prayers for me to continue in my education after graduating from OU. I was offered the scholarship and it was an answer to my prayers I never heard of a Powwow dance Scholarship but I got one. I worked in there office and helped with the pageant for 3 years. I worked hard in every one of my courses. I went to the writing center every day, i hired tutores to become a better writer. The young women I worked with who ran for MIW were so inspiring. I built so many beautiful relationships with these young women and I am still close to many of them today. I respect everyone opinions and understand they don’t have my experiences and relationships. But when people treat me good adopt me into there family I will always have a love and loyalty to them. I am thankful for the opportunities I had with the GON and MIW pageant board, Integrity and loyalty are virtues in live by. I seen many MIW ladies blossom through there experiences. The first year I won GON women’s jingle and GON back up singing contest it opened up opportunities for me to be asked to be in dance troupes that gave me the opportunity to travel the world when I was young. I am thankful that this little Rez girl got have these opportunities. I’m not bragging I’m just sharing my experiences. I am thankful for all the people behind the scenes of GON it not just one person it is a lot of people who work together as family every year.

I HAD THE TIME OF MY LIFE AT GON IN 2016.... THANK YOU GON.👍🐻👍

Not much of a testimonial because I am so sadden by news that this will be the last dance. Sincerely, bj propp

My name is Martin, I am Estok' Gna from Texas, Carrizo/Comecrudo Nation. My favorite memory was at the 2019 GON that I shared with my son Tommy. It was a powerful positive feeling of unity of relatives. I remember hearing the drum as we walked through the tunnel, excitement grew... and then when we reached the other side of the tunnel to the main grounds, I was brought to the feeling of love and joy as we witnessed the largest gathering of our people all around us. I had never felt anything like that before because there are not any Natives where I'm from in Texas. I absolutely loved it. We made it to grand entry and the entire place was packed. I got to see Young Spirit, and was blessed to be a part of witnessing the Sacred White Mountain Crown dancers. Its was great because I was able to share all this with my son. It was and will always be special to me. I am saddened that it is coming to an end. I truly wish it would continue.

Since 1986 in The Pit, through Tingley, till now, every year except for Covid, we've come, brought our family, to GON each April, from sleeping in the back of a pickup truck early on, to fancy hotels now. Too many memories, kindnesses, blessings, connections. Hard to believe it's been 40 years. ml

Blessings to all, I’m Ruben Twobears from S Tx, we don’t have golden eagles in deep S Tx , I went to GON in 1998 -2001, I made new native friends from around the US, and saw for the first time an eagle fly inside the arena at the Pitt for the first time, I felt like electricity where ever eagle feathers dancers came in contact with me, for does that have been there know how packed it gets with dancers, I’ve been wanting to go back so count me in for the Last Dance of the gathering of nations powwow, but it won’t be my last dance, still have many more to go to.

Good morning from North Dakota, I woke up and started scrolling my newsfeed to see the surprising news that GON will have their last dance next year. This does make me sad and very emotional because it has been a place we hold so many dear memories of Spike. The dearest when you held his special and honored him posthumously. We appreciated that so much.  Ten years has gone by and it hasn’t gotten easier without him. Cash has struggled with returning fully to the arena over the years. We even went through a time of having paid someone to get him new beadwork and it fell through and they ghosted us. Cash has become a young man now and has made us proud by joining the Air Force and has dreams of a career in medicine. He has a hobby he is getting more passionate about with videography and his interest is in videoing powwows.  Hearing your news, I found a passion I haven’t felt in ten years, to get Cash ready for the final dance: beadwork, bustles and whatever else I need to prepare. GON was a place where we took him since he was a baby. Our last time at GON was in 2016 when you honored Spike. We’ll make it down and we’ll dance for Spike, we’ll dance to pray for you all and to pray for the future.  Again, my appreciation for the Matthew Family and for the past support for Cash and I during the hardest times of our lives. Wopila Tanka! Toksa Ahke in 2026. 

What? the gathering can't end. Every time I go, I find something and special at the event. The energy level is amazing. Last year I took a British born friend for his first time and he felt the energy and it choked him up with emotions. I also got to meet some two spirited members and attended an independent drag show. Again it was amazing and I will definitely be there. Nothing ends forever, it changes only.

hey i love the pow wow, been going since 2004