Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation pow wow dancer wins at Gathering of Nations in New Mexico

Demi Potts holding First place certificate at Gathering of Nations.
Demi Potts after winning first place at Gathering of Nations. Photo by Claudette Pastion.
Daniel Barker-Tremblay - CFWE - EdmontonAL | 19-05-2022
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Demi Potts from the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation won first place in the Junior Girls Fancy Shawl competition at the Gathering of Nations in Albuquerque, New Mexico at the end of April.

Potts, aged 12, competed against 30 other girls from ages 7-12 at the April 28-30 event.

Over 3,000 participants competed at this year’s Gathering of Nations, over 750 nations from the United States and Canada.

Claudette Pastion, Demi Potts mother says that she was extremely emotional when she watched her daughter win in the event.

Demi Potts moments before competition (Photo Credits Claudette Pastion)

Demi Potts Holding dance number moments before competing at Gathering of Nations (Photo Credits - Claudette Pastion)

Inspiration can come in many forms: for Potts it was her older sister who introduced her to pow wow dancing says Pastion.

Image shows Demi Potts standing in front of sign that reads "Welcome to North Americas Biggest POWWOW!"

Demi Potts at the entrance of the Gathering of Nations (Photo Credits - Claudette Pastion)

Pastion says the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation was very supportive, embracing Potts' dancing and recent win at the Gathering of Nations.

Demi Potts (Middle) with her mother Claudette Pastion (Left) and her father Joe Pastion (Right) - Photo Credits Claudette Pastion

Family photo taken after Demi Potts win with her mother Claudette Pastion and her Father Joe Pastion at Gathering of Nations

Patience is key in the world of pow wow dancing according to Pastion.

(Video Credits - Claudette Pastion)

Pastion says her family is beyond thankful for all of the support they’ve received along Potts’ journey.

 

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