Native Culture Celebrated at Powwow

A procession of Native American descendants wearing elaborate eagle- and hawk-feather headdresses moved their moccasin-covered feet to a steady drumbeat.

One leader held the American flag while another clutched a Native American flag--a wooden staff covered with eagle feathers.

Richard “Blackbear” Angulo said a prayer in the Chumash language before a crowd of a few thousand who attended the 10th annual Everything Is Sacred Pow-Wow on Sunday at Borchard Community Park in Newbury Park.

Honoring the American and Native American flags was part of the traditional Native American ceremony, where the sweet smell of white sage wafted through the air.

“When we pray, we pray for people from all directions and backgrounds in this country,” Angulo said. “We pray for the sick and those in trouble. We pray for those who need guidance--including President Clinton.”

Each year, the California Indian Council Foundation, a 60-member nonprofit organization based in Thousand Oaks, puts on the free event.

“We do this to share our culture with the community,” said Angulo, the foundation’s president. “To let people know we are here and that we still follow our traditions.”

For Saginaw Grant, 62, of Reseda, the event is an important part of his self-expression.

“This is my way of life,” said Grant, who wore leather pants adorned with bright orange and red beads and a headdress made of porcupine quills and deer hair. “This is who I am. It’s hard for me to go without dancing, without being with my people.”

Other descendants came from Santa Ynez, Ventura, Simi Valley and the San Fernando Valley to attend the event, organizers said.

Arts and crafts booths offered items such as silver and turquoise jewelry, raccoon tails, rugs, paintings and clothing.

People also nibbled on Indian fry bread--fried handmade tortillas with honey, cinnamon and powdered sugar--tacos and pork and beef tamales.

The foundation’s primary purpose is to increase public awareness and understanding of Native American history, customs and traditions, organizers said.

The group also donates toys, clothing, food and medical supplies to people in need.