We saw queens, princesses, a president and a “code talker” among many other things at the 91st Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial (August 9-11). Every year there is a Queen of the Navajo Nation chosen, who must show how she is striving to preserve the traditions of her people (the language, the weaving and such things as shearing the sheep among others). There are also the princesses, young girls, 10-12 who are learning the traditions and chosen from different groups. The President of the Navajo Nation was also present at the festivities. But of the course the one who got a standing ovation as he was wheeled in a wheel chair during the parade was a “code talker,” who is said to be one of the last, since several have died this last year, they are truly heroes among Native Americans, especially the Navajos.
The Residents truly enjoyed all three days of the Ceremonial. They of course enjoyed the rodeo, but their greatest joy came from being with the many Native Americans who were present.
Native Americans from around the country wore their regalia (their ceremonial dress), sang their songs, and danced their dances. There were also the Zunis who baked bread at the Ceremonial in two kivas (which was so remarkable to watch-many took pictures as we waited for hours for bread as it baked before our eyes!). We thank the Gallup community for continuing the Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonials.
