Honoring Youth
Through Native Heritage
By Mark Thiel

Guidelines 5-7: Materials

5. Attire

•     Most appropriate is standard contemporary best-dress attire supplemented with distinctive Indian jewelry and ribbon shirts. Powwow dancing attire may be appropriate for individuals who are also dancing when such activities are held in conjunction with honoring ceremonies.

6. Honors

•     The eagle represents achievement, service, life, the people, and the Creator's presence and its feathers and plumes are often used as major awards. Typically, single eagle tail feathers are bestowed on men and boys whereas eagle plumes are bestowed on women and girls. For graduation ceremonies, eagle feathers and plumes may be attached to cap tassles. Replica eagle feathers and plumes are available from many suppliers, some of which are listed under Supply Sources.

•     Star quilts and blankets are also commonly used as awards as well as certificates, trophies, and standard institutional awards may be used in conjunction with native awards.

7. Giveaway

•     After the presentation of honors, it is customary to distribute small gifts to the gathering as momentos. Appropriate gifts include apples and oranges, snacks, small personal and household items, and school supplies.