Powwow benefits Stewart Indian School restoration

The annual Stewart Father's Day Powwow at Stewart Indian School, has taken on even greater significance this year, as it plays a pivotal role in securing continued funding of the Stewart Indian Cultural Center restoration project.

The original administrative office (Building 1) is listed on the National Registrar of Historic Places, and is part of an 83-building campus.

The powwow, which presents traditional competition dance, takes place today through Sunday. It opens with a reception and silent auction from 6-9 p.m. today, at the Courtyard Marriott, 3870 S. Carson St.

"In order to keep the grants we received from the Commission for Cultural Affairs, we've had to step up our fundraising efforts," said Sherry Rupert, executive director of the State of Nevada Indian Commission and coordinator for the powwow.

While current grant funding covers actual construction costs, there are other costs and fees associated with various reports and preliminary work that must be offset, Rupert explained, saying this is where raising additional money becomes so important.

The State Public Works Board is the designated project manager, overseeing design and construction. The additional work on Building 1 is projected to go to bid in October 2010.

"The powwow is always an important part of raising awareness about our Native history, an opportunity to share our culture with the community and to get rid of the stereotypes," Rupert said.

"We do have a unique and special community with a rich history.

"But it also gives us a platform to get the word out that we need help funding this project."

Once completed, the Stewart Indian School will house memorabilia which is currently on display at the Nevada State Museum's Under One Sky exhibit and in the Nevada Indian Commission.

The alumni reunion each year has helped to identify the people and histories of former students, which will also be included.

"There's a lot that we know about what went on at this campus," Rupert said. "But there is still more to learn."

Stewart Indian School served as an off-reservation boarding school from 1890 to 1980.

Presently, visitors can experience a self-guided "Talking Tour," and are sometimes treated to talks by former students. The reasons why the Federal Government established Indian schools and the long term affects are also explored.

"We have 465 tribes nationwide and more than 200 were represented by students who came through here," Rupert said. "We see more students coming here on field trips and received an award from the Nevada State Education Association for our contribution to education."

The powwow includes an array of vendors, food, native arts and crafts, special events and exhibits, as well as competition dance, with full regalia.

Grand entry times are 7 p.m. Friday, 1 and 7 p.m. Saturday and

noon Sunday.

This is a family-friendly event and is free and open to the public.

There will be an information booth with donor envelopes available.

Other fundraising events include a "Preserve Stewart" button campaign and a yet to be determined event this fall.

"Every dollar helps, so donations of any size will be greatly appreciated and we're also seeking corporate donors," Rupert said, adding a special account has been set up for this purpose.

To make a donation, stop by the office at 5500 Snyder Ave. or make checks payable to the Nevada Indian Commission with a notation that it is for restoration, and mail to 5366 Snyder Ave., Carson City, Nev. 89701.

Stewart Indian School Campus is located at 5500 Snyder Ave., Carson City. For more information on the powwow or other events, call 775- 687-8333, visit stewartindianschool.com or find them on Facebook.

There's more:

The Nevada Arts Council's Folklife Program is preparing an exhibition about contemporary powwow traditions in Nevada that will tour the state as part of the Nevada Touring Initiative, starting this month.

"What Continues the Dream: Contemporary Arts and Crafts from the Powwow Tradition," features arts and crafts including contemporary dance regalia, representational artwork by Native American artists and photographs that capture the vibrant spirit of powwow, Nevada-style. The exhibit opens at the Stewart Father's Day Powwow, June 18. To book the exhibit, call 775-687-8333.