Busse Woods comes alive for annual Native American powwow

The Busse Woods Forest Preserve was filled with the sounds of American Indian music and chanting Saturday afternoon as the 61st annual Chicago Powwow got underway.

Hundreds of people from across North America convened at the Elk Grove Village site for the gathering, which was organized by the American Indian Center of Chicago.

They enjoyed traditional dances and food, and they shopped for jewelry, artwork and clothing for sale in tents set up throughout the preserve.

Among the vendors was Michelle White of Dearborn, Michigan. She makes purses, jewelry and other items using Iroquois beadwork.

White said she enjoys attending gatherings like this one, and not just to sell her creations.

"Most people come and they'll ask questions, not only of us but the dancers," White said. "It gives nonnatives an opportunity to find out about the native culture and what we're about."

Chicagoan John McPherson attended the event with his mother, Elizabeth Achuleta. Both wore traditional Native American clothes for the occasion.

"We come together to share our traditions with each other and mingle with other Native Americans from different cultures," McPherson said. "It's good that we do have these powwows … so those who are nonnative can understand our traditions, our values (and) our culture."

Glenbrook South High School sophomore Lauren Luckey attended the powwow with two friends. They made the trip to get extra credit in an urban studies class.

"It's good experience," Luckey said. "It's cool to see a different (culture) once in a while."

The powwow continues Sunday. The gates will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Events include a 10:15 a.m. prayer service, a Hawaiian and Filipino dance exhibition set for 11 a.m. and intertribal dancing at noon.

Parking is available at the Atrium corporate complex on Golf Road and at Woodfield Mall's Lot B. Shuttle buses will run to and from the remote lots.

Admission is $15 for adults or $10 for kids 12 or younger or people 65 or older.

For more, visit aic-chicago.org.