The History of Powwow

The noun "powwow" comes from the Narragansett Eastern Algonquian language. While direct translations to English vary, the underlying definition is any gathering of Native people. The modern powwow has evolved from the Grass Dance Societies that formed in the 1800s. This was originally a social event that allowed Tribes to re-enact treaties as their members witnessed. This event would later become the one of the only means for Native people to preserve their culture. The Indian Removal Act of 1830 led to the displacement of Native Americans as Tribes east of the Mississippi River were forced to surrender their land and move to designated lands in the west. As the U.S. government focused on expanding west, it passed the Indian Appropriations Act of 1851. Native Americans were then displaced into more restricted lands we now know as reservations. During this removal period, many Tribes were forced to share the land with Tribes they had poor relationships with and/or Tribes unknown to them. This systemic approach to oppress and eradicate Native Americans continued by typical ceremonies and customs being prohibited at reservations. However, Grass Dance Societies were permitted. Native Americans began to realize the only way for their culture to survive was to compromise and compile. Therefore, "Inter-Tribalism" grew as songs, dances, clothing, food, and art were shared. This event was used by the Native people to keep their identities alive, and it would later become known as a powwow in the mid-1900s.

The 2020-2021 Homecoming Executive Council made the decision to change the name of the Homecoming student pep rally from "Pow Wow" to "Homecoming Live". Read the attached press release to learn more about the decision.

Press Release

Previous Headliners

Homecoming Live FAQs

Why has the name changed?

The name Pow Wow was taken from the word powwow in Indigenous cultures across the United States. The FSU Homecoming Council felt as if this use of the word was not appropriate for what the event was, as it did not highlight any of the culture that the name came from. The FSU Homecoming Council made the decision to change the name to "Homecoming Live" because it felt more aligned with what the event was: a student focused, live event spotlighting the accomplishments of our students, alumni, community, etc. and showcasing what makes FSU the best university. The previous name was also not in line with the values of diversity and inclusion that the students on Homecoming Council feel are important.

What is a powwow?

The name Pow Wow was taken from the word powwow in Indigenous cultures across the United States. Today, powwows feature songs, dances, clothing, food, and art that are shared to honor the history of Indigenous customs, stories, and heritage. The FSU Homecoming Council felt as if this use of the word was not appropriate for what the event was, as it did not highlight any of the culture that the name came from. For more information on the history of powwow, visit our website http://homecoming.fsu.edu/events/hc-live#history.

Is this name change going to stick around?

Homecoming is a student led tradition with each elected council contributing to their year’s events in different ways. However, we intend to make the name "Homecoming Live" stick around by working to reflect the name change in Student Government Association statutes.

How was this decision reached?

The initiative to change the name Pow Wow started with Homecoming Council members and the effort has been discussed with university administration to make the name change possible.

How will this name change be reflected on social media platforms?

The FSU Homecoming Council has been working on making changes to the website, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and more to better reflect the new name, "Homecoming Live". Many changes have been made, but there is still work to be done, including ensuring that all 2021 Spring Homecoming schedules and posts say "Homecoming Live" instead of "Pow Wow". Our website changes will include a section which will provide a brief history of the origin of powwows in Indigenous cultures.

Is Homecoming Live the same type of event that Pow Wow was?

Homecoming Live is an annual pep rally featuring student performers, comedians or music artists, Chief and Princess reveal, and more! With COVID-19 impacts, the event will look different from previous pep rallies as we strive to put on the most inclusive event possible. Students must adhere to Univeristy policies and face covering or mask are expected at all times when inside any FSU facility, including our sports venues, even if you are vaccinated.

Who can I talk to for more information?

For more information, contact Dr. Felicia Williams, Director of Student Engagement fdwilliams@fsu.edu or (850) 644-6673.