Eight members of tribes from across the United States gathered with students and faculty Wednesday for Pepperdine’s first Friendship Pow Wow.The event hosted by the Pepperdine Native American Student Organization celebrated Native American heritage. Participating members all brought different aspects from each of their respective tribes to the Pow Wow. The group then made a routine of music and dance including all of the different tribes. “I am excited to be at such a unique cultural event senior Scott Miller said. I have never been to a Pow Wow before and I am excited Pepperdine is finally having one.” Facebook invitations posters and personal messages from the student group members helped to usher in a crowd of about 20. Senior Mark Cruz the Native American Student Organization’s co chairman cooked fry bread which was served alongside homemade tamales. As the drums started roaring and the Native Americans began singing faculty and students circled around. The tribe members also taught Native American dances and prayers to onlookers. The goal was to take the listeners through a tour of Native America they said.
Cruz and co-chairman Sierra Reicheneker a junior direct the Native American Student Organization with the assistance of Provost Darryl Tippens and Dean Emeritus David Baird. Since its founding in February of 2009 the organization has aimed to teach people about Native American heritage and encourage cross-cultural education.