A Christmas Powwow Brings Holiday Spirit

On Saturday, December 13, a Christmas powwow took place at Watchetaker Hall.

Benjamin Chasenah, the arena director, said it’s important to give back to the community.

“We're taught in our Comanche value system to always take care of our young people and our elders,” he said. “And this is a real opportunity to bring our Comanche people together and other community members and show that care for one another. And so, it's very important. I enjoy myself here.”

Chasenah said teachings to help others are taught within the culture.

“It's something that our elders and our parents and grandparents instill in us to help when we're able to help,” he said.“And as Comanche tribal members and a community member, we're here, myself and my family are here to help this event and other events continue and be successful.”

This is also the time of year to recognize families.

“It's important, especially this time of year, for families to come together, see one another, enjoy one another, the dancing, the singing,” Chasenah said. “And my favorite part, I think, would be our young people participating. Them coming here, they have an opportunity to see all of the community and even our special guests, Santa, today. And so, yeah, that's probably my favorite part.”

He said the powwow gives children an opportunity to receive a gift.

“Interact with someone who brings joy and hope to our community. And so that's an important part of this time of year,” Chasenah said. “It sometimes can be difficult, but being able to come together and have this event at the Comanche Nation for our young people, it's an outstanding thing.”

He wanted to thank the organizers and Comanche Nation for providing the venue.