UHN Powwow celebrates abilities

A celebration steeped in tradition, honor and inclusiveness, the powwow at the Houma Airbase Arena Sept. 17-18 celebrates the talents and abilities those with disabilities contribute to the community.

“Everybody contributes to the community in one way, shape or form,” said Lanor Curole, director of the United Houma Nation Vocational Rehabilitation program. “Celebrating those aspects is the focus of our program.”

In the powwow’s three years, Curole said it has continued to grow, reaching people from all walks of life and all heritages.

Guests from as far away as Eagle Butte, S.D., Apache, Hulbert and Stillwater, Okla., and Atmore, Ala., are slated to participate this year.

Lyle Cook, the program director of Oun’iyekiyapi Vocational Rehabilitation Services, Itazipco, Wak’pa Was’te O’Yan’ke (Good River People aka Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe) in South Dakota, is the powwow’s special guest. Houma Nation member August “Cocoa” Creppel of Marrero is serving as Head Man, and Kenner resident Rose Behan, of eastern Cherokee descent, is Head Lady.

“It is a traditional powwow, but we’re also bringing information about disability-related programs and information about how disabled individuals have contributed to the community,” she explained. “Sadly, a lot of people sometimes think the word ‘disability’ is a negative thing. They believe it is an assessment of what is wrong with you or what your limitations are.

“Our focus is on what is right. What you do well,” Curole continued. “Regardless of what someone’s limitations may be based on, whether it is a physical condition, a mental health condition or maybe a limiting disability, everybody contributes to the community in one way, shape or form and they bring talents and skills to the table. Our focus is celebrating those aspects.”

An added feature of this year’s powwow is a moment honoring veterans and active military. Special guest Cook will display an American flag flown over the site of the Twin Towers after 9/11. “We’re making a conscious effort to recognize the contribution of any tribal members who’ve fought for our country,” Curole said. “We want to say ‘Thank you’ for all they’ve done for us.”

Admission is free. The public is encouraged to bring lawn chairs.

A variety of food, art and crafts are available for purchase. And in keeping with the theme, a number of organizations that provide disability-related services will be on hand to provide information and answer questions.

The powwow is a drug- and alcohol-free event.

UHN Powwow

Where: Houma Airbase Arena

When: Sept. 17-18

Cost: Free and open to the public

For More Info: (985) 223-3093 or the United Houma Nation’s Facebook page.