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your homegrown newspaper July 5, 2023
Vol. 19, No. 42
Demolition pg. 9
Dentistry pg. 12
The Arlee Esyapqenyi has been held nearly year for decades. This dancer took to the floor in 2019, donning impressive regalia.
Arlee Powwow rings in the summer season By Taylor Davison Valley Journal
Reenactment pg. 14
ARLEE — The 123rd Arlee Esyapqenyi (Celebration) wrapped up this week on July 4 after days of celebration, remembrance and dancing. The celebration was initially banned by the U.S. government
in 1890, but a few years later the Tribe named it as a Fourth of July Celebration, and thus it was allowed. Minus some time off due to COVID-19, the Esyapqenyi has been held every year since. This year’s powwow began with Campers’ Day, opening up the gates at 9 a.m. to welcome
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those who had traveled to attend. The second day marked the celebrations’ Memorial Ceremony, which is historically the day to honor loved ones who passed away. According to the Arlee Powwow website, those who had special inheritances would join in a procession led by one of the spiritual leaders and people
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would carry or wear memorial keepsakes. “After the procession was finished, the announcement was made: ‘leave your sorrows, it is now the time to celebrate for happiness,’” the website explains of the history. Things kicked into high gear
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