Indian Day

Here's a picture taken from the top of Sawtooth after climbing it in August. I live down there, a bit to the left (or north-east). I'm finally getting around to posting pictures on Flickr and here on my blog. I recommend joining Flickr; it's a great site and you can view my photos at www.flickr.com/photos/runjessicarun/.

Yesterday was Indian day and a half day. We had a pageant/talent show, and the contestants wore camp dresses and other traditional clothing. One kid did a crown dance, and he was really impressive. Crown Dancers from Cibeque also danced for the kids. As far as I understand, Crown Dancers wear the black hoods over their faces, because no one is supposed to really know who the crown dancer is. He is possessed by another spirit, almost becomes another person. While the Crown Dance used to be part of the coming-of-age ceremony for young men, they now most commonly dance at the Sunrise Dance, which is still commonly held as a coming-of-age ceremony for girls. It's my understanding that Christion missionaries fought to outlaw the Crown Dance due to its warrior-like nature, but I'm having trouble finding details about it on the Internet. If anyone has/finds any good sources, please let me know. Here's a narrative of its origin.

Big plans for the weekend include finishing grading and biking the Painted Desert-Petrified Forest Scenic Drive.