Thum… thum-thum… thum… thum-thum!
The powerful sound of Native American drums cut through the fog in downtown Merced Saturday morning, heralding the start of the Healing of Our People Powwow at the Multicultural Arts Center.
Stepping into the world of the United Tribes of California (UTOC) Nation was to feel the heartbeat of history reverberating in the present.
The Powwow wasn’t just an event — it was a sacred tapestry woven from centuries of resilience, culture, and connection to the land.
Rooted in collective memory and traditions, it became a space where prayer and pride converged. Every piece of regalia told a story and every drum beat echoed the enduring spirit of the Yokuts, Miwok, Mono, and Paiute peoples.
This photo narrative captures those vibrant moments and sacred rituals, bridging the past and present to reveal how Native traditions thrive despite today’s challenges.
It’s not just about witnessing the beauty — it’s about feeling the soul of a people who have always been here and who will remain.
In the warm embrace of the Powwow, youth were not just participants; they were living symbols of resilience and hope, carrying forward the traditions of their ancestors with pride and joy.
In one moment, a flurry of activity unfolded as colorful candies rained down onto the wooden floor, a celebratory tradition that elicited pure delight.
Young children, dressed in vibrant regalia adorned with intricate beadwork and flowing ribbons, scrambled and laughed together, their hands reaching for sweet treasures.
The scene, a kaleidoscope of color and laughter, underscored the community’s emphasis on joy and inclusion.
Nearby, two young girls sat on the floor, their radiant regalia reflecting the Powwow’s commitment to cultural heritage.
One girl enjoyed her collection of candy while the other leaned in to share a laugh. Their outfits, a blend of vibrant hues and meaningful patterns, told stories of familial love and creativity, crafted by elders to instill pride and identity in the next generation.
Vendors at the Powwow presented a mosaic of culture, craftsmanship, and connection, showcasing a diverse array of Indigenous traditions that extended beyond the local tribes of the Central Valley.
Among the crowd were two vendors representing the Inca tribe of Peru, their presence a vibrant reminder of the shared heritage that spans continents.
Dressed in traditional regalia, they brought with them the warm hues of the Quechua Andes. Their table displayed intricate Chullos — hand-knitted hats with ear flaps — and Sikus, the hauntingly beautiful panflutes that evoke the soul of the mountains.
Their music played softly throughout the day, adding a melodic charm to the event’s ambiance and drawing attendees to their booth.
Not far from them, on the second floor of the MAC, Janice Sanchez proudly displayed the artistry of her 65-year-old mother, whose handmade regalia reflected years of dedication and love for her craft.
From earrings with delicate beadwork to accessories that shimmered with every color imaginable, Sanchez’s booth was a testament to the skill and tradition of Indigenous women who keep cultural expressions alive through their hands.
Kimberly Partida also stood out with offerings that paid homage to her Miwok heritage. Her meticulously crafted pieces echoed the natural patterns and colors of the land her ancestors called home.
As she carefully arranged her wares, Partida spoke passionately about the importance of passing down these skills to future generations, ensuring that her culture’s legacy would endure.
Adding a modern touch to the Powwow, a group of bikers wearing leather kuttes embroidered with the name of their club, “Redrum First Nations,” reverently browsed the displays.
Their jackets, adorned with Native symbology, were a striking blend of contemporary pride and traditional honor. As they admired the intricacies of beadwork and handcrafted jewelry, their presence underscored the evolving ways in which Native heritage is celebrated and embraced.
The scene in the main gallery was alive with movement and color, and each vendor’s table was a vibrant celebration of culture.
The air was thick with stories — those told through the wares on display, the shared laughs between vendors and attendees, and the unspoken pride that tied them all together.
Amid the vibrant energy of the Powwow, moments of deep cultural significance brought a reverent stillness to the room.
UTOC Nation Head Chief Joe EagleGrizzlyBear knelt to present a young dancer with an eagle feather, a gesture of profound meaning in Native American traditions.
The eagle feather symbolizes honor, courage, and a direct connection to the Creator. Its presentation is a sacred acknowledgment of the recipient’s growth and commitment to their culture.
Nearby, head elder Albert Camargo gathered a group of dancers, sharing wisdom passed down through generations. These moments served as reminders of the Powwow’s more profound purpose: to preserve and celebrate the enduring legacy of Native peoples while guiding the next generation with teachings of respect, resilience, and unity.
The event also featured a vibrant lineup of cultural performances and ceremonial activities celebrating Indigenous traditions.
The day began with the rhythmic Gourd Dance, followed by the elegant movements of the Miwok Dancers.
Performances included captivating displays by flute players, Hawaiian dancers, and the energetic Aztec dancers, each showcasing the unique heritage of their communities.
Ceremonial moments such as the grand entry, opening prayer, and royalty announcement set a reverent tone.
At the same time, gift exchanges for head elders, head man and woman, teens, juniors, and tiny tots highlighted the importance of honoring individuals across generations.
Community activities like raffles, a lively candy toss, and the intertribal dance added joy and connection.