Lumbee Tribe selects male and female head dancers to lead annual spring powwow

The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina announces the head dancers chosen to lead the tribe in a celebration of dance for the arrival of the Spring Moon.  The Lumbee spring powwow will be held at the Southeastern Farmer’s Market in Lumberton, off I-95 Exit 14 on May 5, 6 and 7, to honor the changing of the seasons. 

“The Lumbee Tribe is blessed with tribal members who are true role models for our youth, but those tribal members are sometimes overlooked for various reasons” states Tribal Administrator, Leon Jacobs.  “It was with purpose and careful consideration that we chose these two tribal members who have risen against all odds and excepted the duty to connect Lumbee youth with our elders.”

Female Head Dancer for the celebration of the changing season will be tribal member Becky Goins-Leviner from the Lumber Bridge community.  Goins-Leviner was Miss Lumbee in 1991 and graduated 1996 from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP) with a Bachelor’s Degree in American Indian Studies. 

“Being asked to serve as Head Lady Dancer is not only an honor, but also a tremendous responsibility.  I have been reminded over the years that little eyes are watching everything we do.  Now that I’m a mother I see that every day in the eyes of my children.  I chose to raise my children traditionally and teach them to value and respect our culture.  I hope to do the same, not only for the children, but for all the tribal members and guests that will attend this years celebration.”

Currently, she is the Public Information Assistant for the Native American Resource Center at UNCP, as well as an advisor for the Native American Student Organization.

Tribal member Alex Ross, a northern traditional dancer, resides currently in the State of Alabama, and a participant in the Medicine Tail Drum Group.  Ross was raised in the Union Elementary community and graduated from Purnell Swett High School in 1997. 

“I hope to honor my grandmother, Nancy Ross and son, Skylard Ross, by upholding this role with the dignity and respect it requires, and hopefully honoring all Lumbee members by connecting our tribal elders to our youth” states Alex Ross.

Commercial tobacco, alcohol or drugs are prohibited, as the site is respected as tribal ground.  Special guest are the actors from the movie “New World and members of the urban musical band Sour Patch.  Host Drums are High Noon and Sizzortail. 

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