Each year in Cordova, Alaska, the Native Village of Eyak sponsors a two-day celebration in honor of Elders and Sobriety. The culminating feast which typically features crab, deepwater shrimp, moose, chicken adobo, halibut, salmon, pasta, all kinds of desserts and other tasty fare is the culinary highlight of the year. Native groups from throughout southern coastal Alaska fly in to join local groups in events that include traditional dances, honoring elders, arts and craft sales and displays, keynote speakers sharing testimonies about the power of sobriety, and special recognition of military veterans. In the tradition of generosity that is part of Native potlatches, the entire community is invited and when, for example, veterans are honored, all veterans present are recognized with appreciation and gifts.
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A joyous celebration.Thank you for sharing.
We feel privileged to live where Native culture is vibrant. Terrific generosity at this event. I was presented with a beautiful blanket for my service in the Navy and as I mentioned in the post, the feast was incredible. Keynote speakers left Barbra and me with lots to think about and discuss. Thanks for the note.
Noting your comment above, you are indeed privileged to live there, but you are also special in that you, not a First American [my term for natives], want to have these experiences and share them with us.
I noticed from the photo, that at least one veteran was a participant dancer as well as being honored.
Thanks for the comment, Ray & Alie. The annual ceremony honoring veterans provides an interesting snapshot of this celebration. This year, the keynote speaker for the veteran’s recognition ceremony was a non-Native Afghanistan vet, but most of the veterans in attendance were Native. The inclusiveness and generosity in this Native-sponsored potlatch-style celebration make it special. By the way, I like your term, “First Americans.”