Renowned hoop dancer welcomes indigenous studies students at BSU

BEMIDJI—Students participating in American Indigenous Studies at BSU were welcomed to the 2015-2016 school year with two hoop of life workshops Wednesday at the American Indian Resource Center. Kevin Locke, a Lakota and Anishinaabe hoop dancer and flutist, led the sessions.

Students were introduced to the legend of Turtle Island and traditional songs, language and dances in what Locke referred to as "Powwow 101." Locke said he named the workshops after the hoop dance-style because music and traditional culture could easily spin-off from dance. Participants attempted twirling and jumping through hoops, while Locke explained the four main parts of powwow songs and shared stories of his international travels. Locke said dance styles tell a lot about a community.

"One thing I like about Northern Minnesota is there are a lot of traditional powwows," Locke said.

http://www.bemidjipioneer.com/news/3826078-renowned-hoop-dancer-welcomes-indigenous-studies-students-bsu