Photo Courtesy of: http://www.gatheringofnations.com/history/powwow_2014/14_15_MIW_Bio.html
One of the biggest parts of the Gathering of Nations is the crowning of Miss Indian World. It is a most prestigious cultural pageant for young Native women. They compete in the different areas of dancing ability, public speaking and personality assessment, and areas of tribal knowledge. As a part of her duties, the winner of Miss Indian World travels around the country spreading goodwill and inspirational messaged to Native American tribes.
Gathering of Nations
In the past 31 years the Gathering of Nations Powwow has grown from just a dream to one of the largest Native American powwows in the country. Since its inaugural celebration in 1983, the Gathering of Nations has been an event where Natives and non-natives can come together to participate in and witness Native culture. It is also a place where Native American singers and dancers can compete and know that the competition will be fair. There was a large amount of people from around the world that attended the 31st celebration this year in Albuquerque, New Mexico on April 24th-26th. The 2014 Gathering of Nations had over 3,000 indigenous/Native American/Indian competitors representing over 500 tribes across Canada and the United States.
2014 Winner Crowned
One of the biggest parts of the Gathering of Nations is the crowning of Miss Indian World. It is a most prestigious cultural pageant for young Native women. They compete in the different areas of dancing ability, public speaking and personality assessment, and areas of tribal knowledge. As a part of her duties, the winner of Miss Indian World travels around the country spreading goodwill and inspirational messaged to Native American tribes.
This year, out of the 23 Native American women representing their tribes and traditions, Taylor Thomas was crowned as Miss Indian World. In her own words, “indigenous people are forever and always a part of my heart and soul and I’m excited to represent our many nations around the world.” Taylor is from the Fort Hall Indian Reservation in Southwest Idaho and is of Shoshone-Bannock, Kickapoo, and Prairie Band Potawatomi descent. She has served as a United States People to People Sport Ambassador and is on the National Congress of American Indians Youth Commission.
Congratulations Taylor and good luck with your travels over this next year to the different Native American tribes!
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