 Sanford Health in Bemidji teamed up with the Red Lake and Cast Lake Hospitals to host their 13th annual Healing Powwow. Arshraal Mohr tells us the meaning behind the celebration. A powwow is meant to be a celebration of life and this one was no different. Today dozens of people from many different communities came together as one to promote life and healing. We celebrate the providers, the physicians, the nurses, or any of the departments that are included with the healing process for the patients. At a powwow you'll find traditional dancing and stunning regalia and of course lots of singing. The jingle dresses are also known as healing dresses and each song played on the drum also has its own meaning. This is another way of you know recovering. It's another way of bringing good feelings. It's another way of enjoying life. The ceremony acknowledges and thanks western medicine but also reminds everyone to be thankful of sacred medicine too. The hospital itself does its work to help our people but also from the cultural standpoint from our traditional ways this these ways also works in that same manner. Another big part of every powwow is the feasts that happen towards the end or in the middle along with the regalia and the dancing and of course all the drumming. The feasts are said to help with the healing. We always know there's a invisible force there's a higher power so it's really important that we recognize them as well through singing and dancing through ceremony but also through feasting them with the food that we eat. Another big part of the powwow is honoring our veterans. At today's event there are representatives from all reservations surrounding the city of Bemidji. It's a great feeling to carry a flag. I've done that for many years and it's a good feeling. If you ever find yourself at a powwow don't be afraid to ask questions. The main things to remember are don't touch the regalia, drums or eagle feathers but also feel free to join in on one of the dances. Essentially you know just make sure you give people their personal space but you should never be scared of going to a powwow. Reporting of Bemidji, Sheryl Moore, Lakeland News. Organizers say this was their biggest turnout yet and they hope it continues to grow for years to come. If you enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland PBS.