History of Pow Wow and Native American Day (South Dakota)

This month we are excited to celebrate Native American Day here in the great state of South Dakota. In 1989, the South Dakota legislature unanimously passed legislation proposed by Governor George S. Mickleson (1941-1993) to proclaim 1990 as the "Year of Reconciliation" between Native Americans and Whites, to change Columbus Day to Native American Day and to make Martin Luther King's birthday into a state holiday. Since 1990, the second Monday in October has been celebrated as Native American Day in South Dakota.

In 1986, the Black Hills Pow Wow began as a celebration during the 4th of July festival held in Memorial Park in Rapid City, it became clear that there were too many events going on. After South Dakota proclaimed the second Monday in October as Native American Day the Pow Wow became a large part of this celebration of culture and has become one of the largest Pow Wow's in our state.

This year (2014) marks the 28th anniversary of the He Sapa Wacipi Na Oskate (Black Hills Pow Wow), this epic event helps to celebrate Native American Day here in South Dakota. Waci Waci, come dance with us.