Saturday, September 7, 2024

NAYA’s Annual Neerchokikoo Powwow is a celebration of Native American history, culture, and cultural arts. Since 2010, the powwow has welcomed the community to gather to celebrate culture through dance, music, art and food. The Neerchokikoo Powwow also honors partners, volunteers and donors whose contributions to NAYA’s work has enhanced the lives of our youth, families and elders over the past year.

Traditional drumming and dance for individuals of all ages are performed throughout the day, as well as exhibitions from our tiny tots, youth and multi-generational groups. Participants dance, drum and sing in their own styles, as Portland is home to a large and diverse Native population representing members from 380 different tribes.

In addition to the dance exhibitions, Native artisans and vendors supported by NAYA’s microenterprise services offer beautiful prints, jewelry and other items for sale. Delicious fry bread and Indian tacos are available for purchase.

RECLAIMING OUR PAST, CULTIVATING OUR FUTURE

Founded by parent and elder volunteers in 1974, our history is one of great vision, hopes, and dreams for our community. Gaining our 501(c)(3) status in 1994, we expanded our programming and services to better serve our community’s needs.

2024 marks NAYA’s 50th Anniversary! We invite you to be a part of our story as we look back to inform our future and celebrate where we are today. NAYA has audacious goals for our region’s Native American community, providing culturally specific services and a lifetime continuum of programs serving everyone from infants to elders. We are a family of multiple tribes and individuals who are rooted in sustaining tradition, coming together in reclamation, revitalization, and self-determined prosperity.

NAYA, like the community we are proud to serve, is Youth Centered, Family Driven, and Elder Guided.

The powwow is free to the public.