'I don't think it was named out of malice or disrespect, however, just because it's been used for nearly a century, doesn't make it right to continue using it,' Carter wrote.

Carter compiled a packet of letters from Mountain Lake alumni, cultural organizations and three Dakota Nations, listing the problems with calling the festival a Pow Wow and asking the Chamber to change the name. She wasn't the only one concerned about the name. She worked on the effort to change the name of Washington's NFL team and has facilitated mascot changes in high schools nationwide. 'At best, it's not correct - it's not a powwow.'Ĭarter is well-practiced at rebranding away from Native appropriations. 'Ever since I was younger, I knew this name was wrong.' Carter said. T Carter, who grew up in Mountain Lake, explained that the Pow Wow is not a traditional Native American ceremony, but a non-Native carnival, road race and parade. The event's sponsoring organization, the Mountain Lake Chamber of Commerce, is currently considering a request to rename the town's celebration. MOUNTAIN LAKE - Mountain Lake's annual town festival has been called the Pow Wow since its inception in 1923, but that may change soon.

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