Diné Song and Dance

Diné Song and Dance

Diné men at Song and Dance social event



Concerning Indigenous ADORNMENT practices by Diné males in the 21st century, by far the Navajo Song and Dance events are where its at. For it is a time to dress to the "T" as participants, both men and women put on their finest turquoise, silver and Diné  cultural wear.

As a young person I was blessed to a regular participant in the social dance within Navajoland. I would bring my grandmother along and sometimes my mother and they would assist my in ADORNING myself in Diné cultural attire. I was always grateful when and elder woman would gift me with new mocassins, or a sash belt and sometimes even turquoise earrings.

As a participant I was able to view the diverse ways in which the dancers and group singers would dress, adding their own flare to their cultural regalia.  For me this experience was monumental, for it changed the way I thought about my Diné  people and their love for song and for dance. I fell in love with the idea of Indigenous ADORNMENT practices! I was able to understand the spiritual and physical connection that was needed for the Diné person to find happiness.

When one is ADORNED one becomes a better version of themselves, somehow, someway they are able to transcend, I seen this especially with the Diné  elders. What magic it was to see them dances circles around me, conversing and singing with the children and teens....pure medicine!

If you want to see true Diné  ADORNMENT visit a Song and Dance event, you'll be blessed in everyway.

-Vj