On the evening of March 7, 2019 in the Catlett Music Center, the Ruggles Native American Music series gave us— not only a very inclusive performance— but a deeper insight into parts of Native American culture, which is heavily emulated through music and performance.

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We did not know what to expect, and that is not surprising considering that a lot of us were new to learning about indigenous culture in depth. The leader, dressed in a blue shirt, jeans, and a head of feathers walked to the microphone and welcomed us observers dressed from either super casual sweats and hoodies to more formal attire. Rather than what Western performances typically do, which is open immediately into a song to introduce the event, the leader really wanted us to understand that this event is not necessarily for the sole purpose of entertaining us; rather, it is to realize that indigenous song is to restore harmony with the natural world, regain close connection to the fruitful gifts of Mother-Earth, and join the community together

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Overall, this event was a nice experience to observe and engage in indigenous culture. What surprised me was how casual the event was in the regalia and its mix with western relaxed dress. Usually when I think of events in Catlett, I would think it would be more formal with a focus on entertainment. I remember going to the Chickasaw Cultural Center and watching some dances when I was a lot younger, but I remember the performers wearing more traditional regalia. Part of me thinks the Center presents more “traditional” wear for visitors not only to “educate” them about regalia but also to help feed the “exoticism” in our attitudes and expectations about learning about indigenous culture. It was a refreshing surprise that the Catlett event presented a more contemporary look. It helped us to understand that indigenous people’s culture (practices and song, especially) are inherent in them and not strictly defined/limited to their attire. It also shows the products of a long history of assimilation and blends of culture.  

 

Overall, this event was really informative in the visual and auditory sense to see how, through indigenous song and dance, indigenous peoples value good relationships, respect towards the environment, and inclusivity.