P.O. Box 179 * Helena, MT 59624 * Phone~ (406) 439-5631 * Email~ lccpw@hotmail.com

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Pink Shawl Project

The Native American community of Helena, Montana, has a strong tradition of teaching and caring for our families. We believe in education and good health care. Some of our traditions go back to ancient ways and times. We use many symbols to teach our young people the way they should walk.

One of the most notable symbols of the Native Americans is the shawl. The shawl is a symbol of a mother’s warm arms, wrapping her child in love and protection. For many women, a shawl is part of the dance regalia. It has been used for modesty, warmth, and security. A shawl can be a source of pride, as a woman teachers her daughter how to bead, fringe, or quill.

For men of our clans, a vest is a powerful symbol. It was usually made of bone pieces, sewn on leather or fabric to deflect an enemy’s arrow. A man would choose his colors and decorations based on visions or tribal teachings. He would sit with his sons and teach them about life and the importance of protecting the people. A vest is worn over the torso to protect the heart and other vital organs. It is also an important dance regalia item.

Long ago, many days were spent in a lodge, around a fire, with laughter, stories, and teachings. In today’s world, we want to use the shawl and the vest as symbols of awareness of breast cancer. Our men have decided to decorate their vests with sunrise colors because we can imagine a new day with no breast cancer. We want to use the pink as the primary color of the women’s shawls to symbolize our fight against breast cancer. Then, we will come together to dance, teach, and pass on the tradition of good health.

For additional information concerning this very important project, please contact Holly Hacker (266-3667), Linda Priest (439-5631 or lccpw@hotmail.com), or Bonnie Stevens (449-5796). Donations are welcomed…make checks payable to the Last Chance Community Pow Wow (Pink Shawl Project), P.O. Box 179, Helena, MT 59624. We are a non-profit organization.