At the foothills surrounding the Yakima Valley, near White Swan, Washington there is a yearly ten day ceremonial from late June on into July. Here the Yakimas gather and pitch their tepees on a rich meadow of grass and flowers, surrounded by trees of cottonwood, willow, oakwood, and sage brush. Little mountain cold streams, flow here and there within walking distance. At this gathering there are upwards of four and a half thousand Yakimas.

In the olden days as now, it is a gathering of joy. It is in the time of the year when the sun smiles upon the people, hot yet enjoyable. This yearly encampment has taken place for a long, long time; the elders remember when horses were ridden from as far away as parts of Canada, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and form all along the Columbia River.

Here for a small period of time, time is halted . . . the people get reacquainted, they rest, they feed, they trade, and tell stories. Children are all about, enjoying childhood. In the evenings the aroma of the cooking fires abounds with salmon, deer meat, roots of various kinds, and of course everybody's favorite, "Indian Fried Bread."

After the evening meals, it is another story of gaiety, as the many tribes compete against each other in the ever fascinating stick game. I once witnessed eight games going on at once, and the crowds were gathered around them so thick that I gave up trying to get a place. Other games go on at the same time also.

Probably the biggest attraction and a most enjoyable experience, is to observe the dancing and listen to the latest in Indian songs. Many new songs are composed here. The song makers are inspired by the spirit of the people There are sometimes fifteen drums from visiting tribes, with about a dozen singers to each drum. Dancers compete with pure physical strength and stamina.

Being a singer is a complete story within itself. It takes many years of constant practice. The signer is required to learn many songs, some with words. A singer must learn to direct the dancers with his song and beat of the drum. Many times I have seen the disqualification of a drum, because of a mistake of the singers. A good singer will know the long and involved legends which describe the history of the dance or ceremony. Among drummers and singers there are two to three lead singers and their voices can be heard above the others.

At the Yakima Encampment, songs are sung, old and new. This says that all are well, free of sickness; the spirits are happy for our people, and we enjoy life. This is what an Indian ceremonial is supposed to be. When I am there, the life and activities of the encampment make my pulse beat as the drums beat; Indian men, women, and children are calling, laughing; being among them brings joy to the heart.

Notes . . . . Leroy B. Selam "S'waptsa"