Nanticoke tribe cancels 2020 powwow

For the second time in three years, the Nanticoke Indian Association’s annual Powwow has been canceled. 

In a press release July 30, Chief Natosha Carmine said the tribal council has canceled the event because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. This year is year 43 and the powwow was scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 12 and 13. The powwow was canceled in 2018 because of Hurricane Dorian.

“This decision was difficult but necessary to preserve the health and safety of the Nanticoke tribal membership, volunteers, family, friends, sponsors and visitors who have continued to support the Nanticoke Indian Association’s efforts over the years,” said Carmine, in a prepared statement. “The Nanticoke Indian Association extends its sincere appreciation to the community of support which the tribe has enjoyed in years past.”

The 2021 powwow is scheduled to take place Friday, Sept. 10 through Sunday, Sept. 13, at Hudson Fields in Milton. This will be the first time the powwow is taking place somewhere other than the Route 24 location.

In an interview Aug. 1, Carmine said this year’s powwow was also planned to take place at Hudson Fields. She said moving to Hudson Fields allows for the powwow to grow and to have easy access for visitors.

“We’re going to miss the ambiance of the forest, be the tribal council believes it’s a better location,” said Carmine. “If it’s not, at least we tried.”

Among the things the powwow does is serve as a fundraiser for the Naticoke Indian Association. Donations can still be made to the association at www.nanticokeindians.org.