The American Indian Center of Chicago Celebrates 50 Years of Powwow

• Duration:Temporary
• Location:Campbell Gallery

(date) 1/27/2004–6/26/2004

Since 1953, the American Indian Center has hosted the Chicago Powwow, a celebration of Native American arts and culture. The Powwow is a time to reaffirm traditions and to reconnect with family, friends, and the greater community. After World War II, Native Americans from many tribes moved off reservations and relocated to big cities including Chicago. The American Indian Center has served as an anchor for these new "urban-Indians," and the annual Powwow has become an event that brings together Chicago's diverse Native American community. It is also a time to welcome and share cultural traditions with a wider audience. The photographs in this exhibition convey the full-range of the Powwow experience, including drumming, singing, and dancing.

The original exhibition 50 Years of Powwow, hosted by the American Indian Center, would not have been possible without assistance from: Illinois Humanities Council, Illinois Arts Council, Department of Cultural Affairs, City of Chicago, City Arts II, and the D’Arcy McNickle Center for American Indian History at The Newberry Library. Additionally, we thank the Field Museum for their development of the exhibition 50 Years of Powwow in Chicago.