Hoop Dacne

[dnd1050]

Need Background Information on native

american hoop dance for O.A. dance team

[tallkinbear]

OK, lets see....you need info about the dance, or you want to learn the dance...big difference.

The dances are not taken lightly, in any way(oh, can you tell Im NDN?) and to learn the hoop dance will take lots of hard work, and patience.Also, theres no "Dance Academy for Native Dances" or such, so finding a qualified teacher will take even more patience.

If its what the hoop dance is, well, again, you really need to ask those who perform, and politely, and gently, ask them to explain.

I know you were hoping for an easy answer, but you must understand that those who have this heritage (and I dont mean Indians in general, but the tribe itself, which I believe are Hopi?I am not sure...see, we dont all know each other..LOL)protect most of this heritage with a clenched fist.

Dont give upp hope though..I have had many times seen the Indian community at large take a shining to things that outsiders respect, and treat with such respect.

I can tell you, you wont find any of the info you seek on the internet, outside of making contact with the tribe.I would suggest doing a search on tribes(one such place for a good wealth of information is the NATIVEWEB...just do a search and I think you'll find it.

Another group to contact would be the Koshare Dance group(they are a scouting organization!) and they may be able to get you more info.

I hope that this in some ways helps, and I hope you understand that I dont mean to sound like"You cant have that knowledge" and all..but honestly, many times people with ill intention come to tribal people expecting them to hand over what is rightfully thiers.This has been historically to the demise of Indian people everywhere...and I dont believe that is your intention.Hope you find what your seeking, and please, remember that if the road is a difficult one, then it is usually the one that is right!

[Ridgewalker]

Dear Tallkinbear... as long as you brought it up... our council camping committee has been having discussions about what Native American inspired activities and ceremonies are appropriate in Scouting.

 

Specifically, O/A ceremonies, summer camp activities and symbolism, and cub related programs.

 

I don't want to take away from the 'hoop dance' question, but it does bring up related issues.