Puyallup Tribe Member Shawn Reynolds Advocates for Inclusive Powwow Dancing for Individuals with Disabilities
Shawn Reynolds, a member of the Puyallup Tribe, is actively working to make powwow dancing more accessible for individuals with disabilities and special needs. Inspired by his twin sons, Nakotah and Dakotah, who have autism, Reynolds noticed a lack of accommodations in traditional powwows. He approached the directors of the South Sound Powwow, Rachel Barger and Grace Leatham, with a proposal to host a 'special' dance category where participants of all ages and abilities could join, utilizing any necessary accommodations. This initiative allows dancers to participate without the customary regalia, which can be overstimulating for some, and permits support persons to accompany them on the dance floor. The South Sound Powwow successfully implemented this inclusive special, with Reynolds' sons and other individuals with disabilities participating, some wearing noise-dampening headphones or dancing in street clothes.
