The Oahu Intertribal Council (OIC), a 501c3 non-profit organization incorporated in Honolulu Hawaii, formally invited the Southern Ute Veterans Association Color Guard to take an active part in this year’s powwow.

Every year OIC sponsors the Honolulu Intertribal Powwow, this year’s event was hosted in October, and held on the grounds of scenic Magic Island at Ala Moana Beach Park. “This will be our 45th Annual Powwow,” stated Honolulu Intertribal Powwow Chairman, Lynnae Lawrence, M.D., “It is intended to bring together the Native American community scattered throughout the island as well as tourists and Islanders alike to share in Indigenous dance, food and culture.”

Lawrence personally invited the Southern Ute Association.

This year’s powwow is anticipated to share Native American culture and dancing at its finest,” emphasized Lawrence ahead of the event. “We have been honored to welcome various Native American Veterans Associations from throughout the mainland at past powwows.”

“This is not only an intertribal event, but an international event,” remarked Raymond Baker (U.S. Navy, retired), “Our stewardship in culture and representation as veterans was received well by all who participated and observed this event.” In addition to the Southern Ute Association delegates, a number of Southern Ute tribal members traveled to Honolulu for the Intertribal Powwow.

Powwow organizers presented the association members; Rudly Weaver, Bruce LeClaire and Raymond Baker with traditional Hawaiian lays and shell necklaces following the Grand Entry ceremonies on Saturday, Oct. 5.

“Veterans and Native Americans — this was the largest [powwow] they have held, with dancers and drums. What a phenomenal event,” Baker exclaimed. “Them welcoming us to their powwow, that feeling of being appreciated not just as veterans…but being part of their event.”

The powwow was held in the heart of Honolulu on the island of Oahu’s south shore. Honolulu is the capital of Hawaii and the gateway city to the U.S. island chain.